<p><strong>Scientists at IOCB Prague are uncovering new details of gene transcription. They have identified a previously unknown molecular mechanism by which the transcription of genetic information from deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) into ribonucleic acid (RNA) can be initiated. The researchers focused on a specific class of molecules known as alarmones, which are found in cells across a wide range of organisms and whose levels often increase under conditions of cellular stress. The results were published in the prestigious scientific journal </strong><i><strong>Nature Chemical Biology</strong></i><strong>.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_bc2bfffa6c.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription: Dr. Hana Cahová, head of the Chemical Biology of Nucleic Acids research group." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_bc2bfffa6c.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1335"></p><div><p>Molecules of ribonucleic acid can carry a variety of chemical modifications at one end, known as caps. In eukaryotic organisms, including human cells, the best-known cap plays an important role in RNA stability and in regulating its subsequent fate. In recent years, however, it has become clear that alternative, non-canonical RNA caps also exist, although their formation and the mechanisms by which they are attached to RNA remain only partially understood. These include alarmone caps, formed by dinucleoside polyphosphate molecules, that protect cellular RNA at moments when the cell is under threat.</p><p>In their study,<strong> </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://cahova.group.uochb.cz/en"><strong>Dr. Hana Cahová</strong></a> and colleagues examined bacterial RNA polymerase and investigated how this enzyme can initiate transcription using dinucleoside polyphosphates (NpNs) instead of the standard RNA building blocks. For the first time, the scientists described, at the atomic level, how RNA bearing an alarmone cap can be generated directly at the initiation of gene transcription. They also observed that NpNs bind through a different type of base pairing than is typically observed.</p><p>The work was significantly shaped by <strong>Valentina Serianni from Hana Cahová’s team</strong>, who demonstrated the ability of dinucleoside polyphosphates to initiate gene transcription, and by <strong>Jana Škerlová</strong>, who focused on the structural analysis of RNA polymerase. Using cryogenic electron microscopy data, she showed how dinucleoside polyphosphate molecules bind within the active site of RNA polymerase – that is, the core of the enzyme where genetic information is transcribed. Together, their findings help to elucidate the processes that accompany the transcription of genetic information from DNA to RNA.</p><p>Hana Cahová adds: <i>“We’re describing something that truly occurs in cells and that we’re now able to observe directly at the level of individual molecules. This allows us to answer fundamental questions about cellular processes, such as how cells adapt to stress. RNA plays a central role in this, as it carries the cascade of information underlying any cellular response – for example, to threatening conditions caused by nutrient deprivation or temperature shock.”</i></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_2_0fe88ff9e9.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague/Tomáš Belloň: Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription: Dr. Tomáš Kouba, head of the Cryogenic Electron Microscopy core facility." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_2_0fe88ff9e9.jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1335"></p><div><p>Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) was central to the project. This part of the work was led by<strong> Dr. Tomáš Kouba</strong>, one of the authors of the study. <i>“Cryogenic electron microscopy allows us to freeze biological molecules in a state very close to their natural form and then determine their three-dimensional structure. This makes it possible to look directly into the active centers of enzymes and observe their function down to the atomic level,”</i> he explains.</p><p>Last year, IOCB Prague opened a new <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://cryoem.group.uochb.cz/en"><strong>cryo-EM center</strong></a><strong> </strong>that is unique within the Czech research environment. State-of-the-art cryogenic electron microscopes are housed in a specially designed building and enable the study of biological processes with exceptional structural precision.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_3_4d881e7a58.jpg" alt="IOCB Prague: Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription: This work shows how NpnNs initiate bacterial transcription. Cryo-EM reveals how nucleobases pair with the template: one in canonical and one in reverse Watson–Crick mode, providing a structural basis for their function as non-canonical RNA caps." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_UOCHB_Vyzkum_z_UOCHB_odhaluje_dosud_nepoznany_zpusob_prepisu_geneticke_informace_3_4d881e7a58.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="2000" height="1077"></p><blockquote><h4><strong>The Original article</strong></h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41589-025-02134-5"><strong>Molecular insight into 5′ RNA capping with Np<sub>n</sub>Ns by bacterial RNA polymerase</strong></a></h4><p>Valentina M. Serianni, Jana Škerlová, Anna Knopp Dubánková, Anton Škríba, Hana Šváchová, Tereza Vučková, Anatolij Filimoněnko, Milan Fábry, Pavlína Řezáčová, Tomáš Kouba &amp; Hana Cahova&nbsp;</p><p>Nat. Chem. Biol. 21 (2026)</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s41589-025-02134-5">https://doi.org/10.1038/s41589-025-02134-5</a></p><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"><strong>CC-BY 4.0</strong></a></h6></blockquote><h4><strong>Abstract</strong></h4><p>RNA capped with dinucleoside polyphosphates has been discovered in bacteria and eukaryotes only recently. The likely mechanism of this specific capping involves direct incorporation of dinucleoside polyphosphates by RNA polymerase as noncanonical initiating nucleotides. However, how these compounds bind into the active site of RNA polymerase during transcription initiation is unknown. Here, we explored transcription initiation in vitro, using a series of DNA templates in combination with dinucleoside polyphosphates and model RNA polymerase from <i>Thermus</i> <i>thermophilus</i>. We observed that the transcription start site can vary on the basis of the compatibility of the specific template and dinucleoside polyphosphate. Cryo-electron microscopy structures of transcription initiation complexes with dinucleoside polyphosphates revealed that both nucleobase moieties can pair with the DNA template. The first encoded nucleotide pairs in a canonical Watson–Crick manner, whereas the second nucleobase pairs noncanonically in a reverse Watson–Crick manner. Our work provides a structural explanation of how dinucleoside polyphosphates initiate RNA transcription.</p></div></div>

Research from IOCB Prague reveals a previously unknown mechanism of genetic transcription

<p><strong>Food adulteration is a phenomenon with a long history that has gained increasing importance in recent years due to the globalization of food supply chains and strong economic pressures. Whether it involves diluting olive oil with cheaper oils, adding sugar to honey, or the hidden use of substitutes in protein supplements, the result is a loss of consumer trust and, in some cases, a potential risk to health. Analytical chemistry plays a key role in this area by providing methods and technologies capable of identifying and quantifying target compounds as well as unwanted impurities in a wide range of food matrices.</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_Praha_Falsovani_potravin_a_jak_ho_odhali_analyticka_chemie_6912db5492.jpg" alt="Watrex: Food Adulteration and How It Is Revealed by Analytical Chemistry" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Watrex_Praha_Falsovani_potravin_a_jak_ho_odhali_analyticka_chemie_6912db5492.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="900"></p><h4><strong>The Role of Chromatography in Forensic Food Analysis</strong></h4><p>Chromatography, particularly liquid chromatography (HPLC), is one of the most effective analytical tools for separating complex mixtures of molecules. It enables:</p><ul><li>qualitative identification of individual components in a sample,</li><li>quantitative determination of their concentrations,</li><li>detection of impurities and unexpected components that may indicate<br>adulteration.</li></ul><p>In practice, HPLC is often combined with various types of detectors (UV/VIS, DAD, refractive index detectors) or with other techniques (e.g., mass spectrometry) to increase selectivity and sensitivity.</p><h4><strong>Isocratic vs. Gradient Elution</strong></h4><p>In the analysis of food samples, chromatographic methods are selected according to the analytical goal:</p><ul><li><strong>Isocratic HPLC </strong>uses a constant mobile phase composition throughout the analysis. It is simple, robust, and ideal for routine determinations of well-defined target analytes (e.g., sugars or vitamins).</li><li><strong>Gradient HPLC</strong> changes the mobile phase composition during separation, enabling better resolution of complex mixtures with a wide range of polarities (e.g., peptides or phenolic compounds).</li></ul><p>Gradient methods are particularly useful when analytes have very different properties and high separation efficiency is required.</p><h4><strong>Watrex Praha and the Contribution of Modern Systems to Food Analysis</strong></h4><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky_HPLCsystemy"><strong>Watrex Praha, s.r.o.</strong></a> is one of the leading Czech manufacturers and distributors of liquid chromatography systems and instruments, with a long tradition dating back to 1990. The company has successfully transformed from a distributor into a manufacturer of its own HPLC and related technologies, focusing on modular, robust systems suitable even for demanding analytical tasks.</p><p>Their <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/products?manufacturerItems=93&amp;search=streamline"><strong>Streamline™ product line</strong></a><strong> </strong>includes several HPLC system concepts suitable for food analysis:</p><ul><li><strong>Isocratic HPLC system</strong> – a simple yet precise configuration with a single pump, column thermostat, and UV/VIS detector; suitable for routine determination of known analytes (e.g., basic carbohydrates, food additives).</li><li><strong>Binary gradient HPLC system</strong> – equipped with two pumps enabling mobile phase gradient formation, which enhances separation performance for complex mixtures<br>(e.g., phenolic profiles of wine, components of aromatic extracts).</li><li><strong>GPC/SEC system (Gel Permeation / Size Exclusion Chromatography)</strong> – a specialized solution for the determination of macromolecules and polymers, also relevant for the analysis of high-molecular-weight components in foods (e.g., polysaccharides).</li></ul><blockquote><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>👉</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Watrex_catalog_2024_ba97395f92.pdf"><strong>Product catalogue HERE</strong></a></p></blockquote><p>Thanks to the modular nature of these systems, analysts can easily adapt the configuration to a specific analytical problem, from simple routine analyses to complex characterization of food samples.</p><h4><strong>Practical Examples of Adulteration Revealed by HPLC</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Detection of olive oil dilution: </strong>HPLC can separate and quantify characteristic triacylglycerols and fatty acids; unusual patterns indicate the presence of cheaper oils.</li><li><strong>Estimation of sugar addition in honey:</strong> Isocratic HPLC with a refractive index detector can determine sugar profiles (glucose, fructose, sucrose), revealing dilution or the addition of sugar syrups.</li><li><strong>Identification of aromatic adulterants in wine:</strong> Gradient HPLC with a PDA detector can reveal phenolic and aromatic profiles that are altered by the addition of synthetic compounds.</li></ul><h4><strong>Conclusion</strong></h4><p>Food adulteration remains a current issue that requires reliable and sensitive analytical methods. Liquid chromatography, and in particular modern HPLC systems, represent one of the most powerful tools for detecting unwanted additives, impurities, and unexpected components in complex food samples. Manufacturers such as <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky_HPLCsystemy"><strong>Watrex Praha</strong></a> provide flexible chromatographic platforms covering a wide range of analytical tasks from simple isocratic to advanced gradient and GPC/SEC applications thereby supporting analysts in ensuring food quality and consumer protection.</p><blockquote><p>Did you find this article interesting? Follow <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://watrex.com/?utm_source=labrulez&amp;utm_medium=propagace&amp;utm_campaign=labrulez_clanky_HPLCsystemy"><strong>Watrex Praha</strong></a> on their social media (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/watrex/?viewAsMember=true"><strong>LinkedIn</strong></a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.facebook.com/WatrexPrague"><strong>Facebook</strong></a>) for more engaging topics.</p></blockquote>

Food Adulteration and How It Is Revealed by Analytical Chemistry

<p><strong>Join us for a fascinating conversation with Dr. Subhoja Chakraborty from the University of Central Florida, whose cutting-edge research targets the global challenge of malaria drug resistance. Dr. Chakraborty shares her journey from structure-based drug design during her PhD to her recent collaborative work repurposing human kinase inhibitors as rapid, selective antimalarials against drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum strains.</strong></p><h4><strong>In this episode, you'll learn:</strong></h4><ul><li>How structure-guided approaches reveal potential drug targets, including cysteine proteases like falcipain-2, and kinases implicated in malaria's complex life cycle.</li><li>The power of repurposing kinase inhibitors originally developed for cancer and other diseases, focusing on compound 12, which blocks hemozoin formation and protein kinase 6—key steps in parasite survival.</li><li>Lab techniques such as affinity, gel filtration, and size exclusion chromatography for recombinant protein purification—and how troubleshooting is crucial for high-yield, stable complexes.</li><li>Advances in mass spectrometry for characterizing protein interactions, validating drug targets, and mapping molecular pathways pivotal to malaria therapeutics.</li><li>Tips and lessons for new researchers facing the challenges of sample preparation, complex protocols, and working as part of a collaborative team.</li></ul><p>Dr. Chakraborty’s insights bridge the gap between basic science and translational drug discovery, offering hope for more effective, targeted malaria treatments in a world where resistance to frontline therapies threatens millions.</p><h4><strong>Referenced Papers:</strong></h4><ul><li>"Plasmodium falciparum protein kinase 6 and hemozoin formation are inhibited by a type II human kinase inhibitor exhibiting antimalarial activity" (Cell Chemical Biology, 2025)</li><li>"New insights of falcipain 2 structure from Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 strain" (BBRC, 2022)</li><li>"Structure-Based Optimization of Protease−Inhibitor Interactions to Enhance Specificity of Human Stefin‑A against Falcipain‑2 from the Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 Strain" (Biochemistry, 2023)</li></ul><p>If you’re a student, scientist, or simply passionate about advances in infectious disease research, this episode offers actionable insights, inspiring advice, and a front-row seat to innovation in combating malaria.</p><h3><strong>Video Transcription</strong></h3><h4><strong>From Structural Biology to Drug Discovery: Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry in Malaria Research</strong></h4><h5><strong>Introduction</strong></h5><p>In this discussion, Subhoja shares insights into her research journey, focusing on malaria drug discovery and the role of modern analytical techniques in biological and biomedical research. The conversation is aimed primarily at undergraduate students and early-career researchers interested in chemistry, biotechnology, and life sciences.</p><h5><strong>Research Focus: Malaria Drug Discovery and Kinase Targets</strong></h5><p>Subhoja is currently involved in malaria drug discovery research at the University of Central Florida, where she has been working since beginning her postdoctoral position two years ago. Her earlier PhD research focused on structure-based drug design in malaria, using a combination of in silico approaches, recombinant protein expression, and X-ray crystallography to determine precise three-dimensional structures of target proteins and their inhibitors.</p><p>This structural perspective provided a foundation for her current work, which centers on drug discovery through compound screening and repurposing. A recent publication from her laboratory explores the use of repurposed mammalian CDK-like kinase inhibitors as potential antimalarial agents. While such kinase inhibitors are well known in cancer and cardiovascular research, their application to malaria targets represents a novel and promising approach.</p><p>Kinases are attractive drug targets because of their central role in cell signaling and growth pathways. By targeting specific kinases involved in different stages of the malaria parasite life cycle—whether asexual growth, gametocytogenesis, or differentiation—it may be possible to significantly inhibit parasite growth and progression.</p><h5><strong>Chromatography in Protein Expression and Purification Workflows</strong></h5><p>Chromatography plays a critical role throughout Subhoja’s research. Her experience spans from basic chromatography techniques during her early training to advanced protein purification workflows using affinity chromatography, gel filtration (size exclusion chromatography), and ion exchange chromatography.</p><p>Recombinant proteins are routinely purified using affinity resins such as nickel or cobalt, followed by further purification to remove contaminants. Fast Protein Liquid Chromatography (FPLC) enables compact, stepwise purification workflows suitable for producing proteins for in vitro assays.</p><p>A recurring challenge in this process is the expression of high-molecular-weight proteins, which often accumulate in insoluble fractions or inclusion bodies. Careful selection of expression vectors, host systems, and induction conditions is therefore essential to maximize yield and solubility.</p><h5><strong>Integrating Size Exclusion Chromatography into the Workflow</strong></h5><p>Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) is typically used after affinity purification to further improve protein purity. Following elution with imidazole or glutathione, desalting is required to prevent buffer components from interfering with downstream assays. This is often achieved using desalting columns such as G-25 or PD-10.</p><p>To remove lower-molecular-weight contaminants, finer SEC media—such as Superdex or Sephacryl columns—are employed. Concentration steps using molecular-weight cut-off filters are then applied to obtain the desired protein concentration for functional studies.</p><p>These iterative purification and troubleshooting steps are a routine part of protein biochemistry and reflect the importance of methodical optimization and careful validation.</p><h5><strong>The Role of Mass Spectrometry in Biomolecular Characterization</strong></h5><p>Mass spectrometry is a key analytical tool in Subhoja’s research pipeline, particularly for target identification and validation. In both malaria and cancer research, MS is used alongside chromatography, immunoprecipitation, and pull-down assays to study protein interactions and molecular recognition events.</p><p>Affinity-based mass spectrometry enables the identification of binding partners and interactors, whether studying proteins, long non-coding RNAs, or protein complexes. Techniques such as native MS, tandem affinity purification, and proximity labeling (e.g., TurboID-based workflows) provide deeper insights into molecular networks and signaling pathways.</p><p>These approaches are essential for understanding how candidate drug targets function within complex biological systems.</p><h5><strong>Sample Preparation Challenges in Biological Research</strong></h5><p>Sample preparation remains one of the most challenging aspects of biological experimentation. Whole-cell lysates contain proteases, nucleases, and other components that can rapidly degrade target molecules. Preventing degradation requires minimizing preparation time, maintaining low temperatures, and using appropriate inhibitor cocktails.</p><p>Reproducibility is also critical: biological experiments require multiple replicates, and variability is often unavoidable. Careful handling, protocol optimization, and continuous troubleshooting are essential to ensure reliable results, whether preparing samples for chromatography, mass spectrometry, sequencing, or immunoprecipitation.</p><h5><strong>Advances in Chromatography and MS for Malaria Research</strong></h5><p>Modern advances in chromatography and mass spectrometry significantly enhance malaria research by enabling precise target identification, quantification, and functional characterization. Drug discovery workflows begin with construct design and recombinant expression, followed by purification and interaction studies.</p><p>In malaria research, stage-specific parasite biology requires careful extraction and analysis of proteins from different life cycle stages. Tandem affinity MS, immunoprecipitation, and in vivo validation studies help confirm target relevance and therapeutic potential.</p><p>Recent work on repurposed kinase inhibitors has shown promising results, including inhibition of hemozoin formation—a key detoxification pathway for the malaria parasite—highlighting the potential of such compounds for further development.</p><h5><strong>Malaria, Drug Resistance, and Global Impact</strong></h5><p>Malaria remains a major global health burden, with over 600,000 deaths annually and widespread drug resistance complicating treatment. Artemisinin resistance, particularly associated with mutations in the K13 propeller domain, has driven the search for new targets and therapies.</p><p>During her PhD, Subhoja focused on falcipain-2, a cysteine protease involved in hemoglobin degradation within the parasite. This pathway is critical for parasite survival and has emerged as a promising drug target. Her work revealed that falcipain-2 operates within a larger protein complex responsible for hemoglobin processing and amino acid release.</p><p>Understanding these molecular mechanisms is essential for developing robust, stage-specific antimalarial strategies.</p><h5><strong>Advice for Early-Career Researchers</strong></h5><p>For researchers just starting out, Subhoja emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience. Working directly with cells, lysates, and analytical tools is essential for truly understanding experimental systems. Failure is an inherent part of research, and perseverance is key.</p><p>Motivation, teamwork, careful sample handling, and thorough preparation all contribute to long-term success. Reading extensively, critically evaluating one’s own work, and appreciating incremental progress are vital aspects of a sustainable research career.</p><p>Every successful experiment—no matter how small—represents meaningful progress and contributes to the broader goals of science and medicine.</p><h5><strong>Closing Remarks</strong></h5><p>The discussion highlights how interdisciplinary approaches combining chromatography, mass spectrometry, structural biology, and biochemistry are driving advances in malaria drug discovery. Through careful experimental design, analytical rigor, and collaborative teamwork, researchers can address complex biological challenges and contribute to global health solutions.</p><blockquote><p><strong>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.</strong></p></blockquote><blockquote><h4><strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast</strong></h4><p>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!</p><p>You can find <strong>Concentrating on Chromatography Podcast </strong>in podcast apps:</p><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1wZg67rCjoGju4yhqxI3tL"><strong>Spotify</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/tz/podcast/concentrating-on-chromatography/id1788429185"><strong>Apple podcast</strong></a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://podscan.fm/podcasts/concentrating-on-chromatography"><strong>podscan</strong></a></li></ul><p>and on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.youtube.com/@ChromatographyTalk/videos"><strong>YouTube channel</strong></a></p></blockquote>

Affinity, Gel Filtration, Size Exclusion Chromatography: Repurposing Kinase Inhibitors for Malaria

Article

Product

Video

Scientists

Food

Interview

Science and research

The Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague) is a leading scientific institution in the Czech Republic, recognized internationally. Its primary mission is basic research in the fields of chemical biology and medicinal chemistry, organic and material oriented chemistry, chemistry of natural compounds, biochemistry and molecular biology, physical chemistry, theoretical chemistry, and analytical chemistry. 

Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences

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

WATREX Prague is the distributor and producer of HPLC techniques in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Main Chromatografic and Related Techniques Supported: LC, GPC, IC, IEC, Automated SPE, LC Columns and special column packings, LC method development, Software development, Laboratory Robots.

Watrex Praha

Separation Science

Agilent Technologies

Bruker

Shimadzu Corporation

Plasmion

Spectroscopy & Separation Science

<h3><strong>Direct screening enables fast identification and comparison of substances</strong></h3>
<p>Fast &amp; Direct Screening enables to identify or compare different substances without any sample preparation.</p>
<h3><strong>Screening with quantification delivers reliable concentration levels</strong></h3>
<p>Screening with quantification not only enables a fast identification of substances but also provides reliable information about concentration levels to compare with standards or thresholds.</p>
<h3><strong>Automated all-in-one workflow simplifies routine analytics</strong></h3>
<p>All-in-one-Workflow reduces effort and cost in routine analytics as it enables to only perform detailed GC-MS analysis for positively screened samples.</p>
<h4><strong>Conventional Ionization Technologies</strong></h4>
<p>With conventional atmospheric pressure methods, the ions are mostly <strong>formed outside the inlet of an MS</strong>. This implies that the substance to be analyzed (e.g. coffee) cannot be analyzed directly, but is usually &quot;sprayed&quot; into the MS in the form of a sample (liquid extract) via the ionization source.</p>
<h4><strong>SICRIT® Technology</strong></h4>
<p>The SICRIT® (Soft Ionization by Chemical Reaction In Transfer) ionization source is <strong>interfaced with</strong> the atmospheric pressure <strong>inlet of the MS</strong> and ionizes every substance which is drawn into the MS by its inherent vacuum.</p>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Plasmion_Conventional_MS_Ionization_Technologies_vs_SICRIT_Technology_8999716e25/Plasmion-Conventional-MS-Ionization-Technologies-vs.-SICRIT(r)-Technology.png" alt="Plasmion: Conventional MS Ionization Technologies vs. SICRIT® Technology"/></p>
<h4><strong>SICRIT® Characteristics</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li>Simple extension of MS inlet</li>
<li>Concentric dielectric barrier discharge</li>
<li>Sample ionized during transfer into MS</li>
<li>Soft ionization by proton transfer and UV light</li>
<li>No consumables</li>
</ul>


Plasmion: Direct MS Screening - Get Results Faster with SICRIT

Direct MS Screening - Get Results Faster with SICRIT

<p><strong>Agilent and GERSTEL are happy to host this 4-day live virtual seminar discussing how you can assure safety, authenticity, and quality of alcoholic beverages. The focus will be on sharing the latest in technology developments and capabilities, new applications, and customer stories. Topics include spirits, wine, beer, and cider.  There is something for everyone in this seminar series and we are glad to see you here.</strong></p>
<h3><strong>Presentation 1: Characterizing free and bound monoterpene alcohols in wine fermentations</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Presenter: Prof. Susan Ebeler</strong> (Professor, Department of Viticulture and Enology, University of California, Davis)</li>
<li><strong>Presenter: Dr. Larry Lerno</strong> (Director, Food Safety and Measurement Facility, University of California, Davis)</li>
</ul>
<p>Monoterpenes and their glycosidically boud pre-cursors contribute important aroma characteristics to many grape and wine varieties. This presentation will describe multi-dimensional approaches to characterize free and glycosidically-bound monoterpenes in grapes and wines. Glycosidically-bound terpenes are isolated from grapes and the aglycones identified by hydrolysis followed by SPME-GC/MS. The intact glycosides are tentatively identified by ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF/MS). This work enhances understanding of the ways that monoterpenyl glycosides contribute to grape and wine volatile aroma composition.</p>
<h5><strong>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Role of free and glycosidically bound monoterpenes on grape and wine aroma and flavor.</li>
<li>Analytical approaches using SPME-GC/MS and UHPLC-QTOF/MS to identify and monitor glycosidically-bound monoterpenes in grapes and wines.</li>
<li>Information about impacts of fermentation conditions on glycosidically-bound monoterpenes in wine</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Who Should Attend:</strong></h5>
<p>Analytical chemists, food and wine chemists, anyone with interest in food and wine flavor and aroma</p>
<h3><strong>Presentation 2: Solventless Extraction Techniques for the Analysis of Wine</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Presenter: Dr. John Stuff</strong> (Manager, Analytical Services Group, GERSTEL)</li>
</ul>
<p>This talk will focus on solventless extraction techniques for the analysis of wines. Examples of each technique will be presented. The advantages and disadvantages of each technique will be discussed.</p>
<h5><strong>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Different solventless extraction techniques for the analysis of beverages</li>
<li>Advantages and disadvantages of each technique</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Who Should Attend:</strong></h5>
<p>Anyone involved in the analysis of beverages, food, flavor or fragrances</p>
<h3><strong>Presentation 3: Effect of Winemaking on Element Profiles and Arsenic Species</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Presenter: Dr. Jenny Nelson</strong> (Applications Scientist, Agilent Technologies)</li>
</ul>
<p>Metals and minerals play important roles in the production of wine and can impact the overall quality of the finished product. Although a wine’s element content is known to be influenced by environmental conditions originating in the vineyard, it is not entirely understood how winemaking processes impact the final metal concentrations. After a long 2 year study, we are ready to share findings on metals and minerals role in the production of wine and the impact on overall quality. The elemental content of wine is known to be influenced by environmental conditions originating at the vineyard, however, it is not known how winemaking processes impact the final metal concentrations.</p>
<h5><strong>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>How metals and minerals play an important role in the production of wine.</li>
<li>How to use elemental fingerprinting for the geographic determination of wine.</li>
<li>How ICP-MS is used in the wine industry.</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Who Should Attend:</strong></h5>
<p>Anyone interested in elemental analysis of wine</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Prof. Susan Ebeler (Professor, Department of Viticulture and Enology, University of California, Davis)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr. Ebeler is a professor in the Department of Viticulture and Enology at UC Davis. She seeks to answer questions about food and beverage flavor, quality and health effects, using analytical tools including gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, to study the effects of agricultural practices, fermentation, processing, and storage on composition of grapes, wines, and other foods and beverages.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Larry Lerno, PhD (Director, Food Safety and Measurement Facility, University of California, Davis)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr. Lerno is a specialist in the Department of Viticulture and Enology at UC Davis where he serves as the Director of Research of the UC Davis Food Safety and Measurement Facility. Dr. Lerno uses gas and liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometric detectors to explore the aroma, flavor, and taste compounds in foods and beverages and how agricultural, processing, and environmental factors may effect these compounds.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: John Stuff, PhD (Manager, Analytical Services Group, GERSTEL)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr. Stuff’s is currently Manager of the Analytical Services Group with GERSTEL, Inc in Baltimore, MD. He is responsible for methods development for sample preparation and introduction for gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. He develops and teaches customer training classes, gives seminars and posters at national and international meetings, conducts new product testing, and supports pre- and post-sales opportunities. He provides expert analytical support to a wide customer base including, food, flavor, fragrance, forensic, environmental, and chemical industries.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Jenny Nelson, PhD (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Jenny Nelson received her Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Cincinnati in 2007, and her MBA from Saint Mary’s College of California in 2011. Currently, Jenny is an Application Chemist for the Life Science and Chemical Analysis team at Agilent Technologies, joining in 2012 (with a step away in 2019). Jenny is also an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Viticulture and Enology at University of California, Davis since 2013. Jenny has been very active with AOAC and ASTM over the past 8 years, serving on expert review panels, chairing committees, and volunteering to develop new methods needed by the industry.</p>
</blockquote>


Agilent Technologies: Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Seminar

Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Seminar - Wine

Characterizing free and bound monoterpene alcohols in wine fermentations & Solventless Extraction Techniques & Element Profiles and Arsenic Species.

<p><strong>Agilent and GERSTEL are happy to host this 4-day live virtual seminar discussing how you can assure safety, authenticity, and quality of alcoholic beverages. The focus will be on sharing the latest in technology developments and capabilities, new applications, and customer stories. Topics include spirits, wine, beer, and cider.  There is something for everyone in this seminar series and we are glad to see you here.</strong></p>
<h3><strong>Presentation 1: Identification of Markers of Consumer Acceptability in Lager Beer</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Presenter: Benjamin Gelinas</strong> (Postdoctoral Researcher, Ohio State University)</li>
</ul>
<p>Beer remains the largest alcoholic beverage category in terms of volume of consumption, with lager beer being the largest style. An un-targeted flavoromics approach coupling consumer acceptability ratings of 15 lager beers was used to identify markers of consumer acceptability in beer. Top variables of importance were isolated, quantified, and identified prior to recombination studies to demonstrate the effect of these compounds on consumer acceptance and preference.</p>
<h5><strong>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Improved understanding of chemical drivers of beer on acceptance</li>
<li>Improved understanding of the role of iso-humulones on bitterness in beer</li>
<li>Implications of ingredients and processing on flavor and consumer acceptance</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Who Should Attend:</strong></h5>
<p>Personnel involved in the production of lager beer or lager beer ingredients</p>
<h3><strong>Presentation 2: LC-MS Analysis of Hop-Derived Humulone Constituents in Beer</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Presenter: Prof. Bruce C. Hamper</strong> (Associate Teaching Professor, University of Missouri – St. Louis)</li>
</ul>
<p>Hops are essential ingredients for the brewing of beer, providing bitter flavors, desirable taste and hops aroma in the final product. The contribution of humulones and related components in hops to bitter flavors in beer is dependent on numerous factors including the quality, variety and quantity of hops used, specific addition protocols during the brewing recipe, nature of other ingredients and details of the brewing process.  Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) using electrospray ionization coupled with selective ion monitoring (SIM-MS) is particularly useful for profiling the compounds obtained from hops utilization during brewing.  Small scale brews from university brewing courses can be compared and evaluated in an efficient manner. </p>
<h5><strong>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Importance of LC-MS using selective ion monitoring for rapid analysis of complex samples.</li>
<li>Impact of key ingredients used in the brewing of beer on beer flavor.</li>
<li>Key features of hops components and their contribution to beer bitterness.</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Who Should Attend:</strong></h5>
<p>This webcast will be of interest to scientists using analytical techniques for measurement of multiple components in complex mixtures.  Focusing on food analysis provides intriguing examples that can relate to everyday experience and capture the imagination.  Science educators will be interested in the application of these techniques to classroom and laboratory exercises.</p>
<h3><strong>Presentation 3: A HS-SPME Arrow/GC-MS Method for Determination of Smoke Taint-Related Volatile Phenols in Humulus lupulus</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Presenter: Stacey Williams</strong> (Senior Chemist, New Belgium Brewing Company)</li>
<li><strong>Presenter: Justin Alexander</strong> (Analytical Chemist, New Belgium Brewing Company)</li>
</ul>
<p>With a record-breaking fire season across the Western US, an unknown number of food crops were exposed to significant quantities of smoke. Due to the length of the season, Humulus lupulus (hops) were exposed to smoke prior to harvest and during processing. Guaiacol and 4-methylguaiacol (4MG) are routinely used as markers to determine the extent of smoke-taint in the wine industry. Quantitating these compounds in smoke-exposed hops prior to use in the brewing process is needed to predict the likelihood of perceptible smoke taint in finished beer. This presentation encompasses the validated analytical method to accurately quantitate unbound guaiacol and 4-methylguaiacol in smoke-exposed hops.</p>
<h5><strong>Key Learning Objectives/What attendees will learn:</strong></h5>
<ul>
<li>Potential challenges in the raw material supply chain for the brewing industry</li>
<li>Validation of an analytical method</li>
<li>The impact of high aroma active volatiles (i.e., phenols) to beer</li>
</ul>
<h5><strong>Who Should Attend:</strong></h5>
<p>Anyone interested in potential wildfire risks to food crops, especially those handling raw materials used in the brewing industry</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Benjamin Gelinas (Postdoctoral Researcher, Ohio State University)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Ben Gelinas is a postdoctoral researcher at Ohio State University whose primary research focuses on Beer and Beer acceptability. Ben’s background is in analytical flavor chemistry working at the Flavor Research and Education Center at Ohio State University.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Prof. Bruce C. Hamper (Associate Teaching Professor, University of Missouri – St. Louis)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Prof. Bruce Hamper teaches courses in brewing science and general chemistry at the University of Missouri-St. Louis. He leads a research group investigating synthesis and analysis of organic compounds and potential pharmaceutical agents. Current research includes development of synthetic methods for preparation of biomolecules using continuous flow processing. His group is also involved in development of analytical methods for profiling components in fermented beverages.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Stacey Williams (Senior Chemist, New Belgium Brewing Company)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Stacey Williams earned a BS in Chemistry at Metropolitan State College in Denver. She has extensive experience in high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry through her work in pharma, biopharma and the beer industry. She is currently a principal scientist at New Belgium in the QA lab with responsibilities including method development, validation, gas chromatography - olfactory (GC-O) and instrument troubleshooting.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Justin Alexander (Analytical Chemist, New Belgium Brewing Company)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Justin Alexander graduated from Colorado State University with a Bachelor of Science in Fermentation Science &amp; Technology with a Minor in Food Science &amp; Safety. He has multiple years of experience in ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC), primarily focusing on hop bittering components, organic acids, and fermentable carbohydrates. He currently holds a Scientist role in Quality Assurance at New Belgium Brewing Company in the Analytical Chemistry Lab.</p>
</blockquote>


Alcoholic Beverages Virtual Seminar - Beer

Markers of Consumer Acceptability in Lager Beer & LC-MS Hop-Derived Humulone Constituents in Beer & HS-SPME Arrow/GC-MS of Smoke Taint-Related Volatile Phenols.

<p><strong>Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), an emerging class of toxic anthropogenic chemicals persistent in the environment, are currently regulated at the low part-per-trillion level worldwide in drinking water. Quantification and screening of these compounds currently rely primarily on liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS).</strong></p>
<p>To better meet the regulatory demands of rapid screening of these chemicals, the hyphenating of solid phase microextraction (SPME) with direct analysis in real time (DART) will be demonstrated. PFAS analysis screened rapidly by DART on the Bruker EVOQ triple quadrupole using LC free workflows demonstrates a significant increase in productivity whilst also presenting a more economical and a greener solution for the lab.</p>
<p>Join us live for the real-time analysis of PFAS with SPME-DART-MS and discover the power of our cutting-edge instrumentation and technologies. </p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter:</strong> William Fatigante (Applications Scientist, DART-MS at Bruker Applied Mass Spectrometry)</p>
</blockquote>


Bruker Applied Mass Spectrometry - Chromatography-Free Screening of PFAS Enabled Through SPME-DART-MS

Chromatography-Free Screening of PFAS Enabled Through SPME-DART-MS

Screening of PFAS Enabled Through SPME-DART-MS

<h4><strong>PFAS in Focus</strong></h4><p><strong>Welcome to the PFAS in Focus, a comprehensive and exclusive 10-parts webinar series sponsored by Shimadzu, covering the basics and beyond about the analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in the environment. In these five webinars, our experts will demonstrate the suitability of various analytical techniques, such as LCMS, GCMS, CIC, and QTOF, for PFAS testing.</strong></p><p>Join our experts, live or on-demand after the original air date, to demystify the challenges of PFAS analysis and <strong>gain the insights you need to</strong>:</p><ul><li>Manage PFAS contamination in your laboratory.</li><li>Master standardized methods for PFAS testing.</li><li>Discover new analytical workflows to maximize the performance of your instruments (LC-MS/MS, GCMS, CIC, QTOF) for PFAS analysis.</li></ul><h5><strong>Who should attend:</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Environmental industry professionals</strong> and academics currently working on PFAS analysis or looking to establish the application in their labs.</li><li><strong>Representatives </strong>from drinking and wastewater utilities.</li><li><strong>LC–MS users </strong>from any field interested in expanding their applications to include PFAS testing.</li></ul><h4><strong>Part 02: Leveraging GC-MS and CIC as Complementary Techniques to LC-MS for a Comprehensive PFAS Solution</strong></h4><p><strong>The demand for per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) analysis is growing. To date, there are several standardized PFAS methods. Most of these methods are based on Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS) techniques. However, LC/MS is not suitable to analyze all PFAS compounds because of the diverse physicochemical properties of chemicals within the PFAS family. Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry GC/MS as a complementary technique can address volatile PFAS compounds that are challenging to be analyzed by LC/MS.&nbsp;</strong></p><p>In this webinar, a Head-Space Solid Phase Microextraction-Triple Quadrupole Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (HS-SPME GC/MS/MS) analytical method is used to analyze volatile PFAS in water. In addition, we will discuss Adsorbable Organic Fluoride (AOF) analysis by Combustion Ion Chromatography (CIC). This method provides information on the total amount of PFAS that may not be targeted by other selective chromatography methods.</p><p>We will host a Q&amp;A session after the presentation to address any questions or comments.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Andy Sandy (GCMS Application Scientist, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)</p><p>Andy Sandy is a Gas chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) Applications Scientist at Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, USA. In 2016, he joined the company. At Shimadzu he is a part of a dynamic application group, which is responsible for developing applications that provide solutions to complex analytical issues. Prior to working at Shimadzu, he completed a post-doctoral study at University of Illinois at Chicago, where he focused on developing environmental analytical methods for identifying and measuring emerging contaminant in the environment.</p><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Andriy Savka (Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)</p><p>Andriy is an accomplished Product Specialist in the HPLC product group at Shimadzu Scientific Instruments, specializing in Ion Chromatography and other HPLC applications. He developed his chromatography expertise through roles in the pharmaceutical industry and Shimadzu's service team. In his current role within the HPLC group at headquarters, he works on various IC projects providing technical support for customers and developing IC applications for environmental, chemical, and other markets. He combines his technical and scientific background with his emerging business acumen to align product development with market needs, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction. Andriy holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Saint Joseph's University and is currently pursuing an MBA at the University of Maryland Global Campus, with anticipated graduation in March 2025.</p><p><strong>Presenter:&nbsp;</strong>Alan Owens (GC &amp; GCMS Product Manager, Shimadzu Scientific Instruments)</p><p>Alan Owens is the GC and GCMS Product Manager at Shimadzu Scientific Instruments. Alan received his B.S. degree in Biology and Chemistry from Hampden-Sydney college. He then joined Shimadzu as a GCMS Product Specialist at the corporate headquarters in Columbia, MD. Before his time with Shimadzu, he comes from a flavor and fragrance background with expertise in advanced sample introduction techniques such as SPME and Dynamic headspace. He has since expanded into all sample introduction techniques specifically tailored towards Pyrolysis with a heavy influence of plastics and polymers.</p></blockquote>

Leveraging GC-MS and CIC as Complementary Techniques to LC-MS for a Comprehensive PFAS Solution

In this webinar, a HS-SPME GC/MS/MS analytical method is used to analyze volatile PFAS in water. 

GC-MS and CIC as Complementary Techniques to LC-MS for PFAS

<p><strong>There is increased concern regarding the authenticity of basmati rice throughout the world. For years, traders have been passing off a lesser quality rice as the world&#39;s finest long-grained, aromatic rice, basmati, in key markets like the US, Canada and the EU.</strong></p>
<p>In this on-demand webinar, we describe a proof of principle method to assess the authenticity of basmati rice using the latest advancements in high resolution GC-MS and informatics technologies. Volatile compounds of interest were extracted from heated dry rice via SPME and headspace. Following a generic GC separation, detection was performed using a SYNAPT G2-Si MS run in HDMSE mode. Collection of a HDMSE dataset offers a high level of specificity owing to the orthogonal nature of the ion mobility separation to the GC separation.</p>
<p>Progenesis QI, the latest OMICS informatics package from Waters, is designed to utilize the 4-dimensional data produced during a SYNAPT G2-Si HDMSE acquisition. Initially, alignment of all injections was performed followed by the unique peak co-detection process resulting in the same number of analyte measurements in every sample and no missing values. Data from all isotopes and adducts of a parent compound were then deconvoluted giving a single robust and accurate quantitative measurement for that parent compound. The peak picking and deconvolution algorithms ensure a high quality compound table where adducts and isotopes are grouped with the parent m/z. Compounds of interest from the rice samples were highlighted using various multivariate statistical techniques such as PCA and identified using elucidation tools and relevant database searches within the software platform.</p>
<p>This workflow has general applicability to many areas of discovery OMICS and food research where biomarkers differentiating between two or multiple groups are required.</p>
<h3><strong>What will I learn?</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>An experimental workflow to evaluate the authenticity of foodstuffs</li>
<li>A basic workflow for the discovery of volatile biomarkers between multiple groups of samples</li>
<li>The basics of HDMSE data independent acquisition</li>
<li>How Progenesis QI is used to analyze metabolomics data</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Who should attend?</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Food research scientists</li>
<li>Metabolomics research scientists</li>
<li>Biomarker research scientists</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Robert Tonge, Ph.D. (Senior Product Manager, OMICS Informatics, Waters Corporation)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr Robert Tonge is Senior Product Manager for OMICS Informatics at Waters Corporation, Manchester UK. Robert has been at Waters for 4 years in both Product Development and Field Marketing and has approaching 20 years experience in OMICS science. He trained initially in Biochemistry and Toxicology before moving to &#39;Big Pharma&#39; where he worked in Discovery and Translational Research across a wide variety of disease areas from cancer, cardiovascular disease and infection research.</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Gareth Cleland, Ph.D. (Principal Scientist, Food &amp; Environmental Business, Waters Corporation)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Dr Gareth Cleland is a Principal Scientist within the Food and Environment Business Operations at Waters Headquarters, USA. Following his Chemistry studies, he started his professional career working as a Development Chemist for a small coatings company in Oxfordshire, UK. He joined Waters Corporation in 2002 and has held various roles within the organization, both UK and US based, over the last 12 years.</p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/Trung Hieu Dang: Discovery OMICS and Progenesis QI for Food Authenticity Testing

Discovery OMICS and Progenesis QI for Food Authenticity Testing

<p><strong>Food samples that are fatty/oily, dried or highly complex matrices often pose challenges in the analytical process. Therefore, an efficient sample preparation providing a reliable removal or suppression of matrix components is the basis for accurate and reproducible results. In addition, the maintenance demand of the chromatographic systems should be reduced to a minimum.</strong></p>
<p>In this presentation, sample preparation tools based on zirconia-silica adsorbents for the QuEChERS methodology as well as in form of solid phase extraction (SPE) cartridges will be introduced. Their applicability and improved fat and pigment removal will be demonstrated for pesticide analysis in samples like avocado and spices, as well as for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in edible oils. A special QuEChERS mix for green samples (e.g. for spinach) containing zirconia-coated material in combination with a specialized carbon adsorbent ensures sufficient chlorophyll removal while maintaining recovery for planar pesticides.</p>
<p>Furthermore, solid phase microextration (SPME), an easy-to-automate sample preparation technique, using overcoated (OC) adsorbent fibers will be discussed with application examples. These allow efficient adsorptive extraction of semi-volatile compounds from complex matrices like food samples by direct immersion.</p>
<h3><strong>Attend this presentation to learn about:</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>the use and mechanisms behind zirconia-coated silica adsorbents</li>
<li>choosing a suitable material/tool for sample cleanup</li>
<li>how direct immersion SPME can be used for adsorptive extraction of less volatile compounds from complex food samples, expanding the applicability of SPME</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Presenter: Klaus Buckendahl (Analytical Sciences Liaison, Advanced Analytical Europe, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany)</strong></p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p>Klaus Buckendahl received a degree in engineering from the FH Münster University of Applied Science in Germany, majoring in instrumental analysis. He started his career in the technical service at Sigma-Aldrich providing support for the Supelco® line of analytical products. Over the last 20+ years, he held various positions within the company including Product Specialist and Technical Marketing Manager for Sample Preparation in Europe, among others. Currently he works as an Analytical Science Liaison at Merck in the analytical chemistry business unit.</p>
</blockquote>


Pixabay/Jill Wellington:  Sample Preparation for Fatty and Complex Food Matrices

LCMS webinars focusing on SPME - page 1