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

Tosoh Bioscience

Separation Science

Phenomenex

Thermo Fisher Scientific

SCIEX

SciY/Mestrelab Research

Waters Corporation

<h4>Virtual event: Pharma conclave series 2024</h4>SCIEX offers the platform for the experts to take the stage and drive technological progressWelcome to Pharma conclave series 2024 – where our customers’ expertise meets innovation, transforming your knowledge and empowering you to revolutionize your work processes. Join us in discovering techniques that will enhance your skills to accelerate your daily operations in the development of new drugs.From the research of new markers to the drug development moving into non and GLP bioanalysis. Confidently plan your next lab expansion with the knowledge gained from industry leaders and pioneers.<ul><li>May 16 Event 1: Pharma omics</li><li>September 17 Event 2: Impurities</li><li>October 23-24 Event 3: Pharma</li></ul>10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. CET<h3>Event 3: Pharma</h3>The pharma connectionFrom discovery to QA/QC. All the process to bring a new treatment to the patients is following a path to connect the different stages until the magic happens.Join to see how the scientists are generating the needed tricks to connect the initial though with the final formulation.<h3>Day 1</h3><h5>10:00 - 10:30 - Metabolomics screening kits for use in clinical trials</h5><ul><li>Heike Wiese, Nuvisan</li></ul><h5>10:30 – 11:00&nbsp;- Sphingolipid biomarkers in neurodegenerative drug development</h5><ul><li>Jose Carlos Gonzalez, AMSbiopharma</li></ul><h5>11:00 – 11:30 - Parallel setup of a series of micro LC methods, coupled with the low-resolution mass spec (API7500) for &nbsp;TG2 inhibitors</h5><ul><li>Davide Massari and Chiara Olmi, ERBC Group</li></ul><h5>11:30 – 12:00&nbsp;- PFAS analysis and mass spectrometry: Beyond environmental, food and packaging. What about cosmetic and pharmaceutical products?</h5><ul><li>Emiliano De Dominicis, Merieux</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Bruno Manadas, PhD</blockquote><blockquote>Dr Manadas is a prominent Cell Biology researcher at CNC-UC since 2017. With expertise in biochemistry, psychology, and biotechnology, he's authored 130+ publications and led multiple projects. As head of CNC's Mass Spectrometry node and Associate Editor for Frontiers, he's contributed significantly to neuroscience and psychiatry. Bruno's research focuses on cell biology mechanisms, translational biomarker research, and MS-based approaches for studying protein oxidation. He played a pivotal role in establishing the hospital biobank and teaches at the Portuguese Catholic University.</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Dorte Bekker-Jensen</blockquote><blockquote>Dorte is heading the Applications Development team in Proteomics Research at Evosep. She has long-term experience within proteomics and has focused on technology development by developing simple and automated workflows for high-throughput applications.</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Stefan Ledinger</blockquote><blockquote>Stefan has 20 years of experience in the life sciences and diagnostic industries. For the last dozen years, he has been serving various functions within biocrates life sciences ag. Most recently, he has been responsible for the market development for metabolomics solutions in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. He currently serves as Global Head of Sales. Stefan holds degrees in business administration and bioengineering, combining commercial know-how with a passion for science.</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Markus Langsdorf</blockquote><blockquote>Markus has 14 years of experience in life sciences industries. As he joined biocrates in 2010, he worked for 11 years as application support specialist for biocrates’ metabolomics profiling solutions. 3 years ago he changed his position withing the company to his new function as product manager. Markus studied chemistry and graduated with a PhD in Analytical Chemistry.</blockquote>

Pharma conclave series 2024: Pharma (Day1)

From discovery to QA/QC. The process to bring a new treatment to the patients.

<h4>Virtual event: Pharma conclave series 2024</h4>SCIEX offers the platform for the experts to take the stage and drive technological progressWelcome to Pharma conclave series 2024 – where our customers’ expertise meets innovation, transforming your knowledge and empowering you to revolutionize your work processes. Join us in discovering techniques that will enhance your skills to accelerate your daily operations in the development of new drugs.From the research of new markers to the drug development moving into non and GLP bioanalysis. Confidently plan your next lab expansion with the knowledge gained from industry leaders and pioneers.<ul><li>May 16 Event 1: Pharma omics</li><li>September 17 Event 2: Impurities</li><li>October 23-24 Event 3: Pharma</li></ul>10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. CET<h3>Event 3: Pharma</h3>The pharma connectionFrom discovery to QA/QC. All the process to bring a new treatment to the patients is following a path to connect the different stages until the magic happens.Join to see how the scientists are generating the needed tricks to connect the initial though with the final formulation.<h3>Day 2</h3><h5>10:00 - 10:30&nbsp;- Metabolomics: From target engagement to metabolic phenotyping. Applications in drug discovery</h5><ul><li>Filippos Michopoulos, Astrazeneca</li></ul><h5>10:30 - 11:00&nbsp;- Development of an LC-MS Method to Quantify Endogenous Urea in Mouse Plasma and BAL.</h5><ul><li>Benjamin Smith, Cyprotex</li></ul><h5>11:00 - 11:30&nbsp;- Optimization of extraction &amp; LC-MS conditions for the bioanalysis of antibody drug conjugates with diverse chemistries</h5><ul><li>John Perkins, KCAS</li></ul><h5>11:30 - 12:00&nbsp;- Preparation of rodent whole blood and plasma microsamples for LC-MS/MS bioanalysis in toxicology studies</h5><ul><li>Birgitte Støvring, Scantox</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Bruno Manadas, PhD</blockquote><blockquote>Dr Manadas is a prominent Cell Biology researcher at CNC-UC since 2017. With expertise in biochemistry, psychology, and biotechnology, he's authored 130+ publications and led multiple projects. As head of CNC's Mass Spectrometry node and Associate Editor for Frontiers, he's contributed significantly to neuroscience and psychiatry. Bruno's research focuses on cell biology mechanisms, translational biomarker research, and MS-based approaches for studying protein oxidation. He played a pivotal role in establishing the hospital biobank and teaches at the Portuguese Catholic University.</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Dorte Bekker-Jensen</blockquote><blockquote>Dorte is heading the Applications Development team in Proteomics Research at Evosep. She has long-term experience within proteomics and has focused on technology development by developing simple and automated workflows for high-throughput applications.</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Stefan Ledinger</blockquote><blockquote>Stefan has 20 years of experience in the life sciences and diagnostic industries. For the last dozen years, he has been serving various functions within biocrates life sciences ag. Most recently, he has been responsible for the market development for metabolomics solutions in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. He currently serves as Global Head of Sales. Stefan holds degrees in business administration and bioengineering, combining commercial know-how with a passion for science.</blockquote><blockquote>Presenter: Markus Langsdorf</blockquote><blockquote>Markus has 14 years of experience in life sciences industries. As he joined biocrates in 2010, he worked for 11 years as application support specialist for biocrates’ metabolomics profiling solutions. 3 years ago he changed his position withing the company to his new function as product manager. Markus studied chemistry and graduated with a PhD in Analytical Chemistry.</blockquote>

Pharma conclave series 2024: Pharma (Day 2)

Automated lab workflows often require many interactions with pre-existing in-house and commercial software systems. This webinar uses the real example of building a purification factory, to give some insights on how this can be done with Mestrelab tools in conjunction with in-house and commercial software.<div data-aos-delay="0" data-aos-duration="1000"><div>Join us for an insightful webinar where we’ll demonstrate how to integrate Mestrelab’s tools into a complex IT ecosystem to automate lab workflows. Using a real-world example, we'll show you how to build a purification factory that seamlessly connects in-house and commercial software systems.<p data-ccp-props="{&quot;335551550&quot;:1,&quot;335551620&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:0,&quot;335559731&quot;:0,&quot;335559737&quot;:0,&quot;335562764&quot;:2,&quot;335562765&quot;:1,&quot;335562766&quot;:4,&quot;335562767&quot;:10,&quot;335562768&quot;:4,&quot;335562769&quot;:0}">Who Should Attend?​<ul style="font-weight:400;"><li data-charcodes="8226" data-font="Arial,Sans-Serif" data-buautonum="8" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1">Lab Managers and Scientists looking to automate and enhance lab workflows​</li><li data-charcodes="8226" data-font="Arial,Sans-Serif" data-buautonum="8" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1">IT and Automation Specialists in life sciences or chemical industries seeking integration solutions​</li><li data-charcodes="8226" data-font="Arial,Sans-Serif" data-buautonum="8" data-aria-posinset="3" data-aria-level="1">Anyone interested in embedding Mestrelab tools into a powerful, scalable IT infrastructure</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: John Hollerton (Senior Scientific Director, Mestrelab Research)John has over 40 years of experience in the scientific and informatics fields at GSK and its predecessor companies. He has managed various analytical functions, including NMR, X-ray crystallography, mass spectrometry, physical chemistry, and chromatography, and has expertise in chemical structure representation and registration. In informatics, he led projects to create a global scientific data management system and wrote software for instrument control, data transformation, and analysis. His team developed software to automate LCMS purification factories in the US and UK.&nbsp;</blockquote></div></div>

Mestrelab: Building a Purification Factory: Embedding Mestrelab Tools into a Rich IT Infrastructure

Building a Purification Factory: Embedding Mestrelab Tools into a Rich IT Infrastructure

We’ll demonstrate how to integrate Mestrelab’s tools into a complex IT ecosystem to automate lab workflows.

Embedding Mestrelab Tools into a Rich IT Infrastructure

<div data-lineheight="1.5">Food analysis is crucial for consumer safety, authenticity, and pollutant detection. Benchmark analytical methods use complex protocols and organic solvents, and more sustainable alternatives are to be sought out. A recent trend in analytical chemistry leverages raw data from experiments (e.g., chromatographic profiles, spectra) as sample fingerprints, analyzed with multivariate tools to predict characteristics (e.g., origin, composition) and identify adulterations. These approaches reduce analyses, lab work, and resource use, offering greener, more cost-effective alternatives.The webinar will show how to combine the two aims, sustainability and data maximization, using an aqueous colloidal system, developing AF4-DAD-MALS-dRI-FLD platforms to separate and characterize components from food matrices:</div><ul><li data-lineheight="1.5">Red wine profiling and in-depth analysis of output data can highlight particulate complexity, explain sensory feedback, and lead to cultivar grouping.</li><li data-lineheight="1.5">Milk analysis and multivariate elaboration of fractograms enabled single-run discrimination of factors like thermal treatment, fat content, and even the manufacturing plant’s impact on colloidal content.</li></ul>These AF4 method are fast, uses minimal sample preparation, avoid chemical treatments, offering a greener, faster and possibly cheaper alternative. The FFF approach can enhance food quality control and fraud detection processes and is adaptable to other colloidal food samples. Additionally, it underscores the need to increase multivariate analysis in data from FFF platforms.<h4>Key Learning Objectives:</h4><ul><li data-lineheight="1.5">Tackle native sample handling</li><li data-lineheight="1.5">Understanding data extraction from multidetection profiling</li><li data-lineheight="1.5">Rationalizing multivariate analysis of FFF data</li></ul><h4>Who Should Attend:</h4><ul><li data-lineheight="1.5">Laboratory managers</li><li data-lineheight="1.5">Chromatographers</li><li data-lineheight="1.5">Scientist in the Food &amp; beverage industry</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Valentina Marassi, Ph.D. (University of Bologna, byFlow srl)Dr. Marassi is Tenure-Track Researcher and Assistant Professor in Analytical Chemistry at the University of Bologna. She graduated with a B.S. in chemistry, a Master’s in Organic Chemistry and completed a PhD in Analytical Chemistry in the same Institution. Her core research involves separation science and profiling-multidetection applied to nano-bio samples, and developing FFF-chemometrics strategies to model and understand colloidal profiles.Presenter: Prof. Andrea Zattoni (University of Bologna, byFlow srl)Andrea Zattoni joined the University of Bologna in 2006 and is currently an Associate Professor. He holds an M.S. in Chemistry and a Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences from the University of Bologna with a research focus on separation science. His main research interests include the fundamental and instrumental development of field-flow fractionation and its combination with highly sensitive and selective detection techniques.Presenter: Udayabagya (Bud) Halim (Waters | Wyatt Technology)Bud Halim is a senior marketing analyst at Wyatt Technology. He holds a B.S. and Ph.D. in physical chemistry from the UCLA. Bud started his career as an adjunct professor where he taught courses such as Biochem, Analytical, and Physical Chemistr. Prior to joining Wyatt Technology, Bud worked in the scientific instrumentation field as an applications scientist for three years. His experience spans the characterization of batteries, semiconductors, and the stability of biologics, LNPs, and viral vectors.</blockquote>

Waters Corporation: Colloidal Fingerprints of Food and Beverages with multidetector AF4-MALS

Colloidal Fingerprints of Food and Beverages with multidetector AF4-MALS

How to combine sustainability and data maximization, using an aqueous colloidal system, developing AF4-DAD-MALS-dRI-FLD platforms.

Fingerprints of Food and Beverages with AF4-MALS

<div><div>Therapeutic synthetic oligonucleotides represent unique analytical challenges in late-stage development. To meet the stringent regulatory requirements, highly specific and sensitive methods such as liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS) must be used. However, neither chromatography nor mass spectrometry data systems have the capabilities, both in function and in data integrity, for the typical QC analyst end user to run a highly complex method such as purity, assay, and impurity profiling for therapeutic oligos such as anti-sense oligonucleotides.In this presentation, we present a paradigm shift in software with Oligo Analysis Accelerator for OpenLab CDS. This application streamlines the analytical workflow by using a fit-for-purpose user interface while leveraging existing data integrity and compliance architecture within OpenLab CDS.<h4>By attending this webinar, you will:</h4><ul><li>Understand the fundamentals of ion-pair reversed-phase LC/MS for oligonucleotides</li><li>Discover how a single quadrupole detector is used for impurity profiling of anti-sense oligonucleotides</li><li>Learn how fit-for-purpose software for LC/MS analysis in QC lot release can save time and enhance quality</li></ul><h5>Who should attend</h5><ul><li>Analytical chemists interested in cutting-edge software for large molecule late-stage development</li><li>Analytical research and development labs interested in developing robust methods for single-stranded oligo therapeutics</li><li>Process scientists who rely on in-process control purity results to optimize synthesis and purification for oligos</li><li>Quality assurance and quality control personnel supporting oligo testing labs</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Brian Rivera (Software Product Manager, Agilent Technologies)Brian Rivera is a software product manager at Agilent Technologies with 20 years of experience in HPLC analysis of large molecules.</blockquote></div></div>

Separation Sciences: Boost Efficiency in Oligonucleotide QC with Software Designed for the Job

Boost Efficiency in Oligonucleotide QC with Software Designed for the Job

In this presentation, we present a paradigm shift in software with Oligo Analysis Accelerator for OpenLab CDS.

Oligonucleotide QC with Software Designed for the Job

In this webinar, Dr Stuart Best, Deputy Director, Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK), Sygnature Ltd, will provide an overview of analytical approaches in Discovery Bioanalysis CNS measurement, to deliver more information from lower sample volume and align with the 3R principles.Drug discovery programs that target the Central Nervous System require bioanalytical measurement of test compounds and neurotransmitter concentrations to establish a pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) relationship. Bioanalytical assessment of unbound compounds in blood, brain tissue, and cerebrospinal fluid describes its distribution for the systemic circulation into the CNS. The inherently high sensitivity and specificity of LC-Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry enables low level detection in small sample volumes, allowing serial sampling from single animals, reducing animal use and inter-animal variability, supporting the 3Rs principles (replacement, reduction, refinement)The bioanalysis of neurotransmitters such acetylcholine and monoamines, is challenging due to low molecular weight, high polarity, instability, and low endogenous concentrations. At Sygnature, the in vivo Pharmacology team employ microdialysis to permit assessment of neurotransmitter changes in specific brain regions. The low endogenous concentrations in brain regions and collection through dialysis probe into artificial CSF lowers further quantitation limits for neurotransmitter detection and lead to the requirements for highly sensitive and specific analytical approaches.This presentation will describe the above approached to CNS measurement and how LC-Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry enables Sygnature scientists to align to the 3R principles and maximize data output from small samples and relate test compound concentrations to neurotransmitter changes. Truly, achieving on the concept of ‘More from Less’ Stuart will also present further refinement models for assessing test compound impact on acetylcholine and enabling more physiologically relevant measurements.<h4>Key Learning Objectives:</h4><ul><li>Understand the challenges as CNS measurements of test compounds and neurotransmitter concentrations to establish PK-PD relationships</li><li>Explore the complexities of neurotransmitter bioanalysis in discovery DMPK due to low concentrations and instability</li><li>Learn the roles of LC-Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry enabling sensitive detection in small samples and alignment to the 3Rs (replacement, reduction, refinement) principles</li></ul><div><blockquote>Presenter: Dr Stuart Best (Deputy Director, DMPK, Sygnature Ltd)Dr Best's expertise spans regulated and discovery bioanalysis and discovery DMPK, from supporting DMPK screening (solubility, log D, metabolic stability, permeability, plasma protein binding, etc) through in vivo assessment of compounds to more detailed profiling to support candidate nomination and human dose prediction, including the assessment of potential risk from drug-drug interactions.During his time in the industry Dr Best has expanded the utilisation of mass spectrometry (specifically triple quadrupole LC-MS/MS) to help solve drug discovery project challenges with a strong focus on maximizing data capture from in vivo samples, refining experimental designs to permit better PD endpoints and expanding LC-MS/MS support for biological screening assays, where a mass spectrometry end-point is required, for the measurement of more challenging endogenous analytes.</blockquote></div>

More from less: LC-MS/MS an Enabling Technology to Maximize Bioanalytical Data Collection from Small Sample Volumes

An overview of analytical approaches in Discovery Bioanalysis CNS measurement, to deliver more information from lower sample volume.

LC-MS/MS to Maximize Bioanalytical Data Collection

This course is designed to introduce those familiar with analytical-scale HPLC to capillary (or “nano”) liquid chromatography. Although both techniques are based on the same fundamental principles, capillary LC delivers a number of distinct advantages with appropriate use.Commercial instrument options, as well as the basics of preparing your own capillary LC columns, will be described. Because one of the most prominent uses of capillary LC is its coupling to mass spectrometry for complex biological sample analysis, special attention will be given to this important area. Both academic and industrial researchers will be able to apply the information gained through this course to successfully use this essential technique.After completing this course, participants will be able to:<ul><li>Understand the differences between analytical and capillary scale LC</li><li>Describe the fundamentals of capillary LC column preparation</li><li>Determine the best detection modes for a given application</li><li>Explain the advantages of coupling capillary LC with mass spectrometry and how to approach method development using capillary LC-MS</li><li>Identify best practices for the use of capillary LC to solve analytical challenges</li></ul><h5>Who Should Attend?</h5>Scientists, chemists, analytical researchers, lab directors and managers, VPs and directors of QC/QA, lab owners<blockquote>Presenter: Dr. James Grinias (Professor, Department of Chemistry &amp; Biochemistry, Rowan University)James Grinias is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry &amp; Biochemistry at Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey, USA. Dr. Grinias has a number of research interests focused on chemical separations and microfluidics, both at the fundamental level and for the analysis of biological systems. He is the recipient of the 2021 American Chemical Society Satinder Ahuja Award for Young Investigators in Separation Science and the 2022 LCGC Emerging Leader in Chromatography. At Rowan, he teaches courses in general, analytical, and bioanalytical chemistry while also conducting research on UHPLC column performance and instrument miniaturization.Presenter: Greg Ward (CEO, Axcend)Greg Ward serves as the CEO of Axcend, renowned for its portable high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) systems. Greg has over 30 years of experience in the technology and scientific instrumentation sectors. Before joining Axcend, Greg held technical and marketing roles at Hewlett Packard and Agilent Technologies. His leadership at Axcend has been pivotal in advancing the development and commercialization of the Axcend Focus LC®, a compact and eco-friendly HPLC system that has revolutionized the field by offering customers portability, ease of use, and reduced operational costs. Axcend has made significant strides in making high-quality chromatographic analysis accessible and convenient for various industries, including pharmaceuticals, environmental monitoring, and chemical manufacturing. Greg’s vision and dedication continue to push the boundaries of scientific analysis, making him a key leader in the field of compact liquid chromatography.</blockquote>

Separation Science: Introduction to Compact Liquid Chromatography

Introduction to Compact Liquid Chromatography

This course is designed to introduce those familiar with analytical-scale HPLC to capillary (or “nano”) liquid chromatography. 

Biotherapeutics offer targeted therapies for treating a wide range of diseases with greater specificity and efficacy. However, unlike traditional small-molecule drugs, biotherapeutics are typically larger and more complex, requiring advanced techniques for their production, purification, and characterization.Therapeutic proteins, first introduced many years ago, have continually advanced in complexity. Since the introduction of monoclonal antibodies, we now have antibody drug conjugates, bispecific antibodies, fragments and fusion proteins, all of which are in various stages of development.&nbsp;To keep pace with biotherapeutics advances, analytical techniques must also advance.&nbsp;<h5>In this webinar, we will present chromatography findings on:</h5><ul><li>New workflows for intact and peptide mapping characterization of proteins</li><li>Advanced column chemistries for charge variant analysis with pH and salt gradients&nbsp;</li><li>Rapid desalting SEC column for high throughput analysis, ADC analysis with HIC and reversed phase chemistries</li><li>New digestion workflows coupled to a new peptide mapping column for sequence verification and post translation modification analysis</li></ul>This live webinar will be an excellent opportunity to boost your R&amp;D capabilities and strengthen your QC analytical methods for the characterization of biotherapeutics and gene therapies. Dr. Ken Cook will be presenting and answering your questions live.With over 20 years of innovation, Thermo Fisher Scientific is a leader in biomolecule separation and characterization, supported by a wealth of published research.Who should attend?&nbsp;<ul><li>Pharmaceutical and Biotech Researchers: Researchers involved in the development and characterization of biotherapeutics and gene therapies, including those working with therapeutic proteins.</li><li>Quality Control (QC) Analysts: Analysts responsible for ensuring the quality and consistency of biotherapeutic products, who will benefit from advanced methods in characterization and validation.</li><li>&nbsp;R&amp;D Managers: Managers who oversee research and development teams working with biotherapeutics, looking to enhance their workflows and methodologies.</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Ken Cook (Application Scientists Manager, Thermo Fisher Scientific)Dr. Ken Cook began his career in academia as a Biochemistry lecturer focused on protein chemistry and metabolism. With over 30 years of industry experience at Dionex, and later Thermo Fisher Scientific, his vast knowledge supporting and developing solutions within chromatography has established him as a bio-separations expert.Currently, Dr. Cook focuses on supporting and developing solutions for bio-pharmaceutical applications, particularly in the characterization of protein and oligonucleotide-based biotherapeutics. His work involves ongoing collaborations with both the biopharmaceutical industry and academic institutions.His expertise includes peptide mapping using LC/HRMS, charged variant analysis with novel MS coupling, glycan analysis, aggregate analysis, and on-line process monitoring. He also has a growing interest and notable success in gene therapy characterization.Given his immense experience, it is an honour to have Dr Cook share his knowledge.</blockquote>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Innovations in Protein Characterization

Innovations in Protein Characterization

Boost your R&D capabilities and strengthen your QC analytical methods for the characterization of biotherapeutics and gene therapies.

<h5>Who Should Attend:</h5><ul><li>Any HPLC scientists beginning with method development&nbsp;or working with small molecules in pharmaceutical labs &nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Key Learning Points:</h5><ul><li>Learn about selectivity benefits of phenyl phases during reversed-phase HPLC</li><li>Review mobile-phase optimization when using a phenyl column</li><li>Examine a thorough comparison of different phenyl phases with a C18 phase</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Zachary Woodward (Senior Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)Zachary Woodward is a Senior Technical Specialist with Phenomenex, Inc, assisting laboratories with method development in the bio-pharma, environmental, and food industries. &nbsp;Zachary spent his formative years developing HPLC and GC methods with a pharmaceutical lab in Albany, NY, after which he developed HPLC and SPE methods in the clinical setting here in Southern California. &nbsp;Zachary received his B.Sci. in Chemistry from the College of William and Mary, was awarded his Master’s in Chemistry at San Diego State University, and is happy to speak with you today!</blockquote>

How to Choose a Phenyl Phase

Learn about selectivity benefits of phenyl phases during reversed-phase HPLC. Review mobile-phase optimization when using a phenyl column.

Christian Rohrer, Director Sales and Support at Tosoh Bioscience GmbH, will present the next edition of Tosoh Tuesday, a webinar series held by Chromatography Experts.&nbsp;Analytical scientists are faced with the task of finding the right column from an almost unmanageable range of products. On Tuesday, October 22, Andrea Krumm, Product Manager Analytical Columns at Tosoh Bioscience, will focus on columns that enable protein analysis under native conditions through size exclusion, hydrophobic interaction and ion exchange chromatography. We will highlight the different column characteristics (pore size, particle size, base matrices, column dimensions, ligands) and which questions will help you decide which columns to use.After the webinar, ask your questions during the live Q&amp;A session.<blockquote>Presenter: Andrea Krumm (Product Manager Analytical Columns at Tosoh Bioscience)</blockquote>

Tosoh Bioscience: How to select (U)HPLC columns for protein analysis?

How to select (U)HPLC columns for protein analysis?

Columns that enable protein analysis under native conditions through size exclusion, hydrophobic interaction and ion exchange chromatography