Meeting EU Drinking Water Standards: The Critical Role of Sample Prep in Trace Contaminant Analysis

Although modern agriculture needs to be based on accurate real-time data on soil, plant, and environmental conditions, affordable, sufficiently sensitive, and robust monitoring devices for this purpose are currently missing. According to scientists, low-cost sensors based on new smart materials and printing technologies offer a suitable solution. The results of multidisciplinary research thus far and proposals for the development of these devices have been presented by researchers from Czechia, Great Britain, Spain, and the USA in a review article in the prestigious journal <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-68778-6#Abs1">Nature Communications</a>.“Sensor technologies for monitoring plant health are still in their infancy. Only simple sensors capable of monitoring basic parameters such as pH, soil moisture, or temperature are commonly available on the market. However, if farmers are to face current challenges, including climate change, and ensure sufficient food for humanity, they need much more effective tools that will enable them to monitor, for example, various pathogens, including bacteria and fungi. In our opinion, a suitable solution is a combination of new smart materials and printing for the production of inexpensive, durable, and scalable materials,” said the article’s first author, David Panáček from CATRIN, who worked on the study during his internship at Imperial College London.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CATRIN_Soucasne_senzory_nestaci_Vedci_navrhuji_novou_cestu_ke_sledovani_zdravi_rostlin_b4014952a3.jpg" alt="CATRIN: David Panáček" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CATRIN_Soucasne_senzory_nestaci_Vedci_navrhuji_novou_cestu_ke_sledovani_zdravi_rostlin_b4014952a3.jpg 208w," sizes="100vw" width="1536" height="1152">Sensors for monitoring plant health, for example, lag behind similar devices used in human medicine. According to the authors, advances in materials science, which will enable the development of scalable sensor technologies, play a key role in this potential shift. “Printing techniques, including inkjet printing, screen printing, aerosol printing, 3D printing, and direct laser writing, offer flexible ways to produce flexible sensors, large-area sensors, and sensors integrated directly into plants. The review article summarizes recent advances in printable low-dimensional materials for agricultural sensors, analyzes their physico-chemical properties in relation to sensor performance, and discusses key challenges and future opportunities requiring interdisciplinary integration,” said one of the corresponding authors, Michal Otyepka.The research brought together materials scientists, chemists, biologists, sensing experts, and printing technology specialists. Materials research and the use of graphene-based smart materials were led by scientists from CATRIN at Palacký University and VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava. Plant biologists from CATRIN contributed their knowledge of plant development, their responses to stress conditions, and the monitoring of their properties. Researchers from Imperial College London took care of the electronics, while representatives from<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/companies/36"> CEITEC – VUT</a> focused on printing technologies. The team also included leading experts in sensing from the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology in Barcelona, and Joseph Wang of the University of California San Diego, the “father of sensing and electrochemistry,” also contributed his extensive knowledge.“This is a groundbreaking study on this topic, which has managed to attract some truly big names in their respective fields. Last but not least, the study demonstrates that interdisciplinarity at CATRIN gives rise to completely new and promising research topics, such as plant sensing and its use for studying plant-environment interactions and smart agriculture,” added another corresponding author, Nuria De Diego.

Current sensors are not good enough. Scientists propose a new way to monitor plant health

In this episode of the Concentrating on Chromatography podcast, host David Oliva interviews Ainslie Chen about her cutting-edge research on hemoglobin variant testing using liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HR-MS). Ainslie discusses her novel method for separating and identifying hemoglobin subunits with mass shifts less than 1 Da, overcoming critical limitations in conventional clinical assays.Hear firsthand how her team developed an LC-HR-MS workflow using a C4 reversed-phase column, tackled technical challenges (including why C18 columns fell short), and achieved unprecedented sensitivity for variant detection in both adult and neonatal samples. The conversation touches on the potential of mass spectrometry to revolutionize clinical diagnostics, the importance of reproducibility, barriers to adoption in routine labs, and how teamwork drives scientific innovation.Perfect for analytical chemists, clinical laboratorians, and anyone interested in the future of protein variant analysis, this episode also features Ainslie’s advice for early-career scientists and insights from her first ACS poster presentation.<h4>Key Highlights:</h4><ul><li>Motivation behind improving hemoglobinopathy testing &nbsp;</li><li>Technical advantages of LC-HR-MS over gene sequencing and CE &nbsp;</li><li>The crucial role of the C4 column in resolving challenging samples &nbsp;</li><li>Critical parameters for reproducible LC-HR-MS workflows &nbsp;</li><li>Barriers and outlook for clinical adoption of advanced mass spectrometry &nbsp;</li><li>The value of teamwork and mentorship in scientific research &nbsp;</li><li>Direct insights from recent ACS conference experiences</li></ul><h3>Video transcription</h3>In this interview, Ainslie Chen discusses her research on improving the detection and identification of hemoglobin variants using liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). The work addresses limitations of conventional hemoglobinopathy testing, which often struggles to resolve very small mass differences between closely related hemoglobin subunits. Because even a single amino-acid substitution can significantly alter hemoglobin structure and function, high analytical resolution is essential for accurate diagnosis of conditions such as anemia and sickle cell disease.Chen explains why her team selected LC-HRMS over established clinical techniques like capillary electrophoresis and gene sequencing. While sequencing offers excellent accuracy, it is time-consuming, costly, and requires extensive sample preparation, making it impractical for routine clinical workflows. Capillary electrophoresis enables subunit separation but lacks the resolving power needed to distinguish variants differing by less than one Dalton. In contrast, high-resolution mass spectrometry provides both structural specificity and sensitivity, enabling confident identification of subtle hemoglobin variants with minimal sample preparation.A key methodological insight from the project was the use of a C4 reversed-phase LC column instead of the more common C18 column. Chen describes how the shorter carbon chain and larger pore size of C4 columns improved protein elution and reduced denaturation, leading to more reproducible separations. Critical parameters for reproducibility included consistent mobile-phase composition (0.1% formic acid in water and acetonitrile), controlled temperature (60 °C for LC, ~320 °C capillary temperature), and stable chromatographic conditions.Beyond hemoglobin analysis, Chen highlights the broader potential of high-resolution mass spectrometry in proteoform analysis and clinical diagnostics, including emerging applications in cancer detection. She acknowledges current barriers to clinical adoption—such as energy demands and instrument infrastructure—but points to advances like miniaturized mass spectrometers as promising steps toward wider use. The interview concludes with advice for young scientists: don’t hesitate to reach out to mentors, embrace collaboration, and view analytical chemistry as a versatile tool that bridges medicine, biology, environmental science, and beyond.<blockquote>This text has been automatically transcribed from a video presentation using AI technology. It may contain inaccuracies and is not guaranteed to be 100% correct.</blockquote><blockquote><h4>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</h4>Dive into the frontiers of chromatography, mass spectrometry, and sample preparation with host David Oliva. Each episode features candid conversations with leading researchers, industry innovators, and passionate scientists who are shaping the future of analytical chemistry. From decoding PFAS detection challenges to exploring the latest in AI-assisted liquid chromatography, this show uncovers practical workflows, sustainability breakthroughs, and the real-world impact of separation science. Whether you’re a chromatographer, lab professional, or researcher you'll discover inspiring content!You can find Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast in podcast apps:<ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL">Spotify</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185">Apple podcast</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography">podscan</a></li></ul>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos">YouTube channel</a></blockquote>

Unlocking Hemoglobin Variant Detection: LC-HR-MS Breakthrough with Ainslie Chen

Article

Video

Environment

Scientific article

Interview

Science and research

The Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute (CATRIN) at Palacký University is a cutting-edge scientific hub dedicated to advancing research in the fields of nanotechnology, biotechnology, and biomedicine. At its core, CATRIN boasts outstanding scientific teams, featuring international researchers. We emphasize interdisciplinarity, foster global collaborations, and work to translate our research findings into practical applications.

CATRIN

Organomation, founded in 1959, designs and manufactures high-quality nitrogen evaporators and extraction systems. Known for innovation and durability, their lab instruments are used globally for efficient sample preparation with strong customer support.

Organomation

New Food magazine

Agilent Technologies

GERSTEL

Shimadzu Corporation

<ol>
<li>Strategies for sample cleanup</li>
<li>Chromatography problems caused by sample matrix</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li>Physical effects</li>
<li>Chemical effects</li>
</ul>

Agilent Technologies: Techniques for Avoiding Unexpected Problems in LC and GC Analysis

Techniques for Avoiding Unexpected Problems in LC and GC Analysis

If you’re doing food testing and want to find ways to do more with less while getting consistent accurate results this seminar is for you.
We will walk through a sample application – multi-residue pesticides in fish using LC/MS – from sample prep to data analysis, and point out tips for saving both time and money and improving results. Key topics covered will be column selection, tips for extending column life and “just enough” sample prep solutions that reduce time spent on sample prep.
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Presenter: Mark Powell (Application Engineer, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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<blockquote>
Mark Powell is an Applications Engineer located at Agilent’s Little Falls site in Wilmington, DE. Before joining Agilent in 2011, Mark worked in the pharmaceutical industry synthesizing, purifying and analyzing drug candidates. He provides applications assistance and technical support for Agilent’s HPLC columns and consumables.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: New:Troublefree Food Testing - Technologies to Improve Uptime and Productivity

Troublefree Food Testing - Technologies to Improve Uptime and Productivity

Sample application – multi-residue pesticides in fish using LC/MS.

Technologies to Improve Uptime and Productivity

This series is ideal for anyone currently working on medicinal cannabis or other cannabis products, looking to expand further as well as those new to this area of research who are eager to learn more.
<h3>Other sessions cover topics such as:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Pesticides analysis</li>
<li>Heavy Metals Analysis</li>
<li>Cannabis Potency Testing</li>
<li>Terpenes and Residual Solvents</li>
</ul>

Pixabay/TinaKru :Shimadzu Cannabis Analysis Series - Sample Prep/Purification Strategies

Shimadzu Cannabis Analysis Series - Sample Prep/Purification Strategies

Routine testing laboratories continue to strive for efficient and reliable sample throughput. Multiresidue pesticides is an example of this, where the generic extraction offered by QuEChERS has streamlined sample preparation. However, for comprehensive pesticide testing, both liquid and gas chromatography are typically required.
<h3>Join us to learn about:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Fit-for-purpose, comprehensive analysis of pesticides in a selection of foodstuffs, by LC- and GC-MS/MS</li>
<li>Key considerations and easy-to-use tools to maximise your method performance</li>
<li>Testing in compliance with the relevant guidelines of SANTE 11813/2017</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Kari Organtini, Ph.D. (Senior Scientist, Waters Corporation)
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Kari received her Ph.D. from Penn State studying the occurrence of dioxins and furans in fire debris. Since 2015 she has been a Senior Scientist at Waters focusing on food and environmental sample analysis.
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Pixabay/Jerzy Górecki: Maximizing Mass Spectrometry Capabilities in Food Analyses for Multiresidues

Maximizing Mass Spectrometry Capabilities in Food Analyses for Multiresidues

The subject of this presentation is practical results achieved from comprehensive automation of complex sample preparation workflows for LC/MS and GC/MS. An overview of the most frequently encountered reasons for wanting to automate sample preparation is presented along with the attained benefits in laboratories based on real life cases. An automation platform based on a robotic autosampler with one or two independently moving x-y-z arms is presented along with available modules for a wide range of individual operations.
Using a combination of individual modules for agitation, incubation, centrifugation, and evaporation, liquid/liquid extraction or derivatization procedures can be automated. For extract- or sample clean-up, modules ranging from filtration through centrifugation to solid phase extraction (SPE) are available to meet individual analytical needs. The automation potential of the platform is illustrated based on application examples of widespread current interest. Among these are the determination of 3-MCPD and glycidol in edible oils; glyphosate in food; mineral oil hydrocarbon (MOSH/MOAH) contamination of food; and phosphatidylethanol (PEth), an alcohol consumption marker used in forensic toxicology and determined in Dried Blood Spots (DBS).
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Presenter: Oliver Lerch, Ph.D.
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Oliver is Automated Sample Preparation Product Manager at GERSTEL in Mülheim an der Ruhr, Germany. After obtaining his doctorate in analytical chemistry at the Ruhr University Bochum, Germany in 2003, Dr. Lerch worked as a Post Doctorate Fellow at the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Plant Physiology in Potsdam, Germany. In 2005, he joined GERSTEL as Application Specialist involved in product development and application testing. Over several years, Dr. Lerch has been responsible for strategic application development for the areas Food-, Water-, Pharmaceutical- as well as Forensic Toxicology. Multiple projects have been implemented in close cooperation with scientists in customer laboratories and several have been published in peer reviewed journals.
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Gerstel: State of the Art Automated Sample Preparation for 3-MCPD, MOSH/MOAH, Glyphosate, PEth, and more

LCMS webinars focusing on Sample prep - page 45

State of the Art Automated Sample Preparation for 3-MCPD, MOSH/MOAH, Glyphosate, PEth, and more