Oligonucleotide and mRNA Analysis Resource Roundup

What do chromatography, gemstones, rainbows and even cats have in common? At KNAUER’s latest Girls’ Day in Berlin, 15 schoolgirls explored exactly that question. Through a series of hands-on activities, they discovered how HPLC instruments are developed and manufactured, learned the basics of spectroscopy and chromatography, and met women working across science, engineering, product management and company leadership.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_1_A_student_observes_the_rainbow_spectrum_of_white_light_8ef24d9700.jpeg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 1 A student observes the rainbow spectrum of white light." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_1_A_student_observes_the_rainbow_spectrum_of_white_light_8ef24d9700.jpeg 228w," sizes="100vw" width="624" height="427"><h4>A Day to Explore STEM Careers</h4>Girls’ Future Day, widely known as Girls’ Day, gives schoolgirls across Germany an opportunity to experience professions in which women are still underrepresented. Instead of learning about careers only in the classroom, participants can spend a day inside companies, laboratories and technical workplaces and see what these jobs actually involve.KNAUER has participated in Girls’ Day for 17 years, and demand for places has become consistently high. The attraction is easy to understand: visitors do not simply listen to presentations. They can experiment, assemble components, talk directly with employees and discover how science and engineering are applied in everyday work.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_2_Hands_on_experience_and_wonder_at_Girls_Day_2025_98da525b3a.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 2 - Hands-on experience and wonder at Girls’ Day 2025: 13 interested girls assembled pump heads, learned what HPLC is, and how such equipment is developed" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_2_Hands_on_experience_and_wonder_at_Girls_Day_2025_98da525b3a.jpg 125w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="1280"><blockquote>“That moment when the girls realize, with sparkling eyes, just how cool science can be—that’s exactly why I love Girls’ Day. It’s worth every bit of the effort!” – Dr. Kristin Folmert, chemist and product manager at KNAUER</blockquote><h4>From Laboratory Instruments to a Wide Range of Careers</h4>At KNAUER wissenschaftliche Geräte GmbH, laboratory instrumentation is designed, developed, manufactured, tested and marketed from Berlin for customers around the world.That requires far more than chemists alone. The company brings together people working in mechanical production, logistics, media design, mechatronics, software development, science, product management and company management.For the participating girls, this offered a chance to meet women following very different career paths and to see that a technology company can provide opportunities across many disciplines.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_3_The_girls_learned_what_chromatography_and_HPLC_are_a7db4e8eb3.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 3 - The girls learned what chromatography and HPLC are, what they are used for, and how a UV/Vis detector works. They then built their own handheld spectroscope and experimented with white light and various color filters." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_3_The_girls_learned_what_chromatography_and_HPLC_are_a7db4e8eb3.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="609"><h4>Women in Science and Technology at KNAUER</h4>Women account for 37% of KNAUER’s workforce, with particularly strong representation in scientific and management positions. The company reports a gender pay gap of 1.84% for 2026, compared with an unadjusted German gender pay gap of 16% in 2025. Women also hold 44% of leadership positions at KNAUER, including several positions performed on a part-time basis.The company emphasizes practical measures intended to make technical careers accessible to a wider range of employees. These include flexible work models, support for childcare and technical solutions such as indoor cranes for handling heavy components.During Girls’ Day, these policies become less abstract. Participants meet scientists, engineers and managers who can describe how they entered their professions and how their careers developed.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_4_During_a_visit_to_the_equipment_development_department_scientist_Thy_Vu_talks_about_her_career_at_KNAUER_3bd9af2786.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 4 - During a visit to the equipment development department, scientist Thy Vu talks about her career at KNAUER. She wrote her bachelor’s thesis here and then worked as a student assistant in development during her master’s program. Subsequent to completing her master’s degree, she accepted a permanent position at KNAUER in the development department. Today, she is developing the pump drive of the future and tells the fascinated girls which gemstones are used in such a pump (sapphires and rubies)." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_4_During_a_visit_to_the_equipment_development_department_scientist_Thy_Vu_talks_about_her_career_at_KNAUER_3bd9af2786.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="614"><h4>Role Models and First-Hand Career Insights</h4>Several KNAUER employees are also involved in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13080121/">International Women in Chromatography</a>, a network supporting women and non-binary professionals working in chromatography.Throughout the day, the students encountered women at different stages of their careers: from university students and young scientists to experienced product managers, developers and Managing Director Alexandra Knauer.The message was not simply that STEM careers are available to women, but that scientific and technical work can take many forms. Networking, curiosity, willingness to ask questions and confidence in one’s own abilities were recurring themes throughout the event.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_5_A_girl_works_intently_and_with_great_care_on_her_spectroscope_ed94a2a049.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 5 - A girl works intently and with great care on her spectroscope. None of the girls glance at their phones; they are all polite, and many feel comfortable asking questions openly. We are very excited about this generation of bright young talents." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_5_A_girl_works_intently_and_with_great_care_on_her_spectroscope_ed94a2a049.jpg 127w," sizes="100vw" width="405" height="496"><h4>Learning HPLC by Doing</h4>The scientific part of the day began with the basic principles of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).To make separation easier to understand, the group first experimented with light and heavy balls inside a large glass column. From there, the discussion moved to the individual components of an HPLC system.One analogy compared an HPLC instrument with the human body: the pump moves liquid much like the heart circulates blood, separation takes place in the column, and the detector observes the separated compounds through their interaction with light.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_6_The_HPLC_and_its_various_modules_depicted_as_human_organs_855ab67aac.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 6 - The HPLC and its various modules, depicted as human organs." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_6_The_HPLC_and_its_various_modules_depicted_as_human_organs_855ab67aac.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1210" height="670"><h4>Building a Spectroscope and Seeing Light Differently</h4>Each participant then constructed a small handheld spectroscope.The task required both careful reading and manual dexterity, particularly when fitting the delicate lens. Working together, the girls quickly developed better ways to complete the assembly—a small example of how real development projects evolve through cooperation and continuous improvement.Once finished, the spectroscopes revealed the spectrum of white light as a rainbow together with visible spectral features. Colored filters placed between the light source and the spectroscope then demonstrated how absorption changes the observed spectrum.This connected the practical activity with concepts introduced earlier in the day: visible light, wavelength, absorption and how optical signals eventually become peaks in HPLC detection.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_7_A_11_year_old_girl_gazes_fascinated_at_her_rainbow_4f713de2ae.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 7 - A 11-year-old girl gazes fascinated at her rainbow and notices that while all the colors are visible, some areas are brighter while others are quite dark. “Is the spotlight not pure white, or is my spectroscope absorbing light?” Such clever questions arise when girls are encouraged to explore things for themselves." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_7_A_11_year_old_girl_gazes_fascinated_at_her_rainbow_4f713de2ae.jpg 200w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="800"><h4>Inside Instrument Development and Manufacturing</h4>The program then moved from theory into KNAUER’s production environment.In the mechanical manufacturing area, participants saw CNC machines and robotic systems producing precision components for laboratory instruments. They could watch parts of an HPLC pump head taking shape directly from metal components and learn why accurate machining is essential for reliable instrument performance.<blockquote>“This is like science fiction!” – Mariko Stahr, Girls’ Day participant</blockquote>In the development department, engineer Thy Vu demonstrated her work on pump-drive technology and explained how developers investigate parameters such as motor torque. The girls were also able to handle some of the materials used inside an HPLC pump.One detail generated particular interest: components made from sapphire and ruby. This opened a discussion about material properties, crystal structures and why instrument developers benefit from understanding chemistry as well as engineering.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_8_Thomas_Mueller_explains_to_the_girls_how_CNC_machines_mill_the_housing_for_a_pump_head_bd714b9b50.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 8 - Thomas Müller explains to the girls how CNC machines mill the housing for a pump head from a block of metal and why precision is crucial in this process. On the left is one of the robotic arms that continues working even at night, allowing employees to focus solely on daytime work and more demanding tasks. " srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_8_Thomas_Mueller_explains_to_the_girls_how_CNC_machines_mill_the_housing_for_a_pump_head_bd714b9b50.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1278" height="468"><h4>Assembling a Real HPLC Pump Head</h4>The final practical station brought the participants into instrument assembly.Each girl was given the opportunity to assemble a pump head herself. The work proved more demanding than it initially appeared, requiring both hands to coordinate several components accurately.With guidance from KNAUER training supervisor Ronald Berger, the participants completed their assemblies before each pump head underwent a final technical check to verify that the pistons moved correctly.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_9_A_girl_is_screwing_the_check_valve_with_the_check_valve_holder_i_cf84fb4375.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 9 - A girl is screwing the check valve with the check valve holder into the pump head. Everything is then tightened using a torque wrench." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_9_A_girl_is_screwing_the_check_valve_with_the_check_valve_holder_i_cf84fb4375.jpg 179w," sizes="100vw" width="376" height="327">The day concluded with lunch and another opportunity to speak with Managing Director Alexandra Knauer, who has long supported initiatives intended to improve the visibility of women and encourage young people to consider STEM careers.Participants received certificates and “I love HPLC” bags with small gifts before leaving KNAUER with their own impressions of what a future in science and technology could look like.<h4>So Where Do the Cats and Rainbows Come In?</h4>The rainbow seen through a spectroscope provides a simple demonstration of the same basic optical principle used in many analytical measurements.When white light is dispersed, its different wavelengths become visible as a spectrum. If part of that light is absorbed by an object or substance, the resulting spectrum changes. Measuring which wavelengths are absorbed can therefore reveal information about the material interacting with the light.The article illustrates the idea with a deliberately simple example: a cat sitting in front of a light source may absorb most of the light, but its silhouette still provides information about what is blocking the beam.Similarly, analytical detectors can obtain information about molecules by measuring how they interact with light.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/KNAUER_Figure_10_The_cat_actually_absorbs_all_the_light_af8452f58d.jpg" alt="KNAUER: Figure 10 - The cat actually absorbs all the light, but its outline still lets us know that there’s a fluffy cat sitting there. In HPLC, a[SD5.1] molecule’s light absorption also tells us a great deal about its identity. " srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_KNAUER_Figure_10_The_cat_actually_absorbs_all_the_light_af8452f58d.jpg 236w," sizes="100vw" width="1024" height="676">The same principle also helps explain the colors of evening sunlight. When sunlight travels through a longer path in the atmosphere, shorter-wavelength blue light is scattered more strongly, leaving proportionally more of the longer-wavelength red and orange light reaching the observer.For the students at KNAUER, concepts such as these transformed HPLC and spectroscopy from abstract scientific terminology into something they could build, observe and discuss themselves.And that is ultimately the purpose of Girls’ Day: to show young people that science and technology are not distant subjects confined to textbooks, but fields full of practical questions, creative problem solving and possible future careers.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun With KNAUER – A Girls' Day Full of Rainbows

Our Library never stops expanding. What are the most recent contributions to LabRulezLCMS Library in the week of 21st September 2026? Check out new documents from the field of liquid phase, especially HPLC and LC/MS techniques!<blockquote>👉 <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/library">SEARCH THE LARGEST REPOSITORY OF DOCUMENTS ABOUT LCMS AND RELATED TECHNIQUES</a></blockquote><blockquote>👉 Need info about different analytical techniques? Peek into <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezGCMS</a> or <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library">LabRulezICPMS</a> libraries.</blockquote>This week we bring you application notes by KNAUER and Shimadzu, technical note by Thermo Fisher Scientific and poster by Waters Corporation / SOFT!<h3>1. KNAUER: Precise Catechin Profiling in Various Types of Tea</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/VFD_0198_knauer_precise_catechin_profiling_in_various_types_of_tea_d607cde5ba.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>Fresh tea leaves contain high concentrations of catechins, which have many beneficial properties. These include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory as well as antimicrobial effects, and it is even claimed that they have the potential to prevent cancer [1]. In addition, the taste and mouthfeel of a tea strongly depend on its catechin profile. The catechin content of tea leaves varies based on cultivation area, age and variety, as well as on how they are fermented, processed and packed. Therefore, the catechin content is an important marker for the quality of tea.&nbsp;The analysis of catechins can be challenging. The structural similarity of the catechin isomers and other closely related compounds result in similar behavior and a difficult separation (Fig. 1). Catechins possess many phenolic hydroxyl groups, which are prone to secondary interactions, like hydrogen bonding. Classical as well as highly endcapped C18 columns offer only limited retention and selectivity for catechins. Therefore, the KNAUER column portfolio has been expanded to include a pentafluorophenyl (PFP)-modified stationary phase (Eurospher II 100-3 PFP column 50 x 2 mm). It offers optimal separation of the catechins based on hydrophilic, hydrophobic and π-π-interactions. The column withstands acidic eluents (pH 1.5–10) as well as 100 % aqueous conditions, which are beneficial for the retention of hydrophilic compounds. The KNAUER Gradient Prediction Tool assisted with the challenging method development which is described in detail in the TechNote “The Gradient Prediction Tool: Method Development for the Separation of Catechins from Tea”. Here, the application of the optimized method for the identification and quantification of catechins in tea extracts is shown. The seven compounds specified in ISO-14502-2 (2005), as well as two additional catechins known as (+)-gallocatechin and (–)-gallocatechin gallate, were quantified.<h4>MATERIAL AND METHODS</h4><ul><li>Pump: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/2374">P8.1L</a>; high pressure gradient&nbsp;</li><li>Liquid Handler: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1454">LH 8.1L </a>With FastWash station, and Robotic cooler. Loop: 20 µl.</li><li>Thermostat: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/2376">CT 2.1L&nbsp;</a></li><li>Detector: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/2424">DAD 6.1L&nbsp;</a></li><li>Flow cell: Analytical LightGuide flow cell (50 mm, 6 µl)&nbsp;</li><li>Software: ClarityChrom 10.1</li></ul><h4>CONCLUSION&nbsp;</h4>The application note demonstrates the reliable separation and quantification of catechins and caffeine in tea extracts using the new KNAUER PFP column. Using an optimised gradient predicted with the KNAUER Gradient Prediction Tool, nine tea-related compounds were separated in under 23 minutes. The tested tea samples showed different catechin content highlighting how strongly tea composition depends on the product type and processing.<h3>2. Shimadzu: New Derivatization Method for Quantitative Analysis of Δ⁹-THC-COOH in Urine</h3><ul><li>Application note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/an_01_01215_en_c98174629b.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><h5>User Benefits</h5><ul><li>The risk of limited availability of stable isotope-labeled standards can be avoided by synthesizing internal standards through derivatization.&nbsp;</li><li>The derivatizing agent IPPAH and its corresponding stable isotope IPPAH-d6 can be synthesized easily and inexpensively from acetone (or acetone-d6).&nbsp;</li><li>This approach achieves sufficient sensitivity and quantitative accuracy for the determination of Δ⁹-THC-COOH in urine.</li></ul>In Japan, the Cannabis Control Act and the Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act were amended in December 2024. While cannabis was legalized for industrial and medical uses, stricter cannabis regulations have been enacted to prevent harm from its abuse. The primary psychoactive cannabinoid, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ⁹-THC), is extensively metabolized in the body and is excreted mainly in urine and feces as 11-nor-9-carboxy-THC (Δ⁹-THC-COOH) and its glucuronide conjugates. Consequently, Δ⁹-THC-COOH must be analyzed to confirm cannabis use. For LC-MS/MS quantitation, the stable isotope-labeled internal standard Δ⁹-THC-COOH-d3 is commonly used to correct for matrix effects. However, most suppliers of stable isotope standards are located in the U.S., making these standards difficult to obtain due to import procedures. Furthermore, there may be additional importrelated supply risks for stable isotope standards in the future.&nbsp;This Application News describes a technique for quantitating Δ⁹-THC-COOH using an internal standard that is synthesized easily and inexpensively by derivatization with IPPAH (1- isopropylpiperidine carboxylic acid hydrazide), which characteristically reacts with carboxyl groups, and its corresponding stable isotope IPPAH-d6.<h4>Analysis Conditions&nbsp;</h4>LC-MS/MS analysis conditions are shown in Table 1. The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/lcms/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=Nexera+XR">Nexera XR</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/lcms/library?mainauthorItems=1&amp;search=LCMS-8050">LCMS-8050 systems</a> were used.<h4>Conclusion&nbsp;</h4>Derivatization with IPPAH and its stable isotope analog, IPPAHd6, enabled the simple and inexpensive preparation of an internal standard. This approach provides sufficient sensitivity and accuracy for the determination of Δ⁹-THC-COOH in urine. Most stable isotope-labeled standards are supplied by foreign manufacturers, creating a risk of delays or difficulties in procurement due to import/export regulations. By synthesizing the internal standard through derivatization, this risk can be minimized.<h3>3. Thermo Fisher Scientific: High-throughput quantitative proteomics with Evosep Eno and the Orbitrap Astral Zoom Mass Spectrometer</h3><ul><li>Technical note</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/tn_004544_ov_astralzoom_evosepeno_htp_proteomics_tn004544_na_en_f31db9084e.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul>High-throughput proteomics is a critical enabling technology for large clinical studies, high-content drug screening, and systems biology research, allowing for comprehensive and quantitative analysis of complex proteomes across large sample cohorts within practical timeframes. As biological and translational studies expand in scale and complexity, the ability to generate deep and reproducible proteome measurements across thousands of samples has become increasingly essential for robust biomarker discovery, network-level systems modeling, and downstream analyses. In these contexts, accurate and precise protein quantitation must be maintained without sacrificing throughput, placing stringent demands on the performance and robustness of both LC instruments and mass spectrometers.&nbsp;To meet these increasing analytical demands, the Evosep Eno was developed as a high‑throughput LC system that combines robustness, ease of use, and highly reproducible chromatography. It offers six standardized methods: 30, 60, 100, 200, 300, and 500 samples per day (SPD), allowing users to select the throughput that aligns best with their study goals.1 These predefined methods ensure consistent gradient delivery, highly stable retention times, and reproducible system performance across instruments and laboratories.2 By reducing LC‑related variability and simplifying everyday operation, the Evosep Eno offers a strong and consistent foundation for large‑scale proteomics workflows, particularly those relying on short gradients and high reproducibility required for downstream quantitative analysis.<h4>Experiment</h4><h5>Instrumentation&nbsp;</h5><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/lcms/library?mainauthorItems=291&amp;search=evosep+eno">Evosep Eno&nbsp;</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1959">Orbitrap Astral Zoom Mass Spectrometer&nbsp;</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/2464">Thermo Scientific™ EASY-Spray™ Ion Source&nbsp;</a></li><li>Evosep™ Pod for EASY-Spray Ion Source</li></ul><h5>Software&nbsp;</h5><ul><li>Biognosys Spectronaut® 19.7 software&nbsp;</li><li>MacCoss Lab Software Skyline-Daily V25.1</li></ul><h4>Summary&nbsp;</h4><h5>Seamless and easy integration for high-throughput proteomics&nbsp;</h5>Evosep Eno integrates seamlessly with the Orbitrap Astral Zoom Mass Spectrometer, supported by EASY-Spray source-compatible columns, emitters, and the Evosep Pod column oven for a simple, streamlined, high-throughput workflow.&nbsp;<h5>Deep proteome coverage at 500 SPD&nbsp;</h5>Optimized MS parameters for the standard 500 SPD Evosep Eno gradient enabled identification of more than 6,500 protein groups and 71,000 modified peptides from three replicates of 200 ng Pierce HeLa Digest/PRTC Standard.<h5>Reproducible quantitation across standard gradients&nbsp;</h5>Across all standard Evosep Eno gradients, the workflow delivered highly reproducible label-free quantification, with median protein group %CVs at or below 5.2%, while identifying more than 10,500 protein groups and 190,000 modified peptides from five replicates of 200 ng Pierce HeLa Digest/PRTC Standard at 30 SPD.&nbsp;<h5>Robust chromatography at ultra-high throughput&nbsp;</h5>Chromatographic performance remained stable and robust at 500 SPD, with nearly 100 consecutive runs showing PRTC retention time standard deviations below 0.4 seconds and a median of 6 DPPP.&nbsp;<h5>Strong linearity for confident quantitation&nbsp;</h5>Quantitative performance remained strong at 500 SPD, with PRTC peptides showing excellent linearity across the active gradient (R² &gt;0.98) when spiked from attomolar to femtomolar concentrations.<h3>4. Waters Corporation / SOFT: COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF HIGH RESOLUTION MASS SPECTROMETRY ACQUISITION STRATEGIES FOR THE DETECTION AND ANALYSIS OF ILLICIT DRUG SUBSTANCES</h3><ul><li>Poster</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/pdf/720009592_0bd2b5ee6a.pdf">Full PDF for download</a></li></ul><div><div><section><div><div><div><div><div><div>The poster compares two high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry acquisition strategies for toxicology screening: targeted Tof-MRM and data-independent Tof-MSE, both implemented on a Waters <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1148">Xevo MRT MS</a> coupled to an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/199">ACQUITY UPLC I-Class FTN PLUS System</a>. The aim was to determine whether these approaches could meet routine service requirements for drug testing while also broadening the number of substances that can be detected beyond conventional targeted panels. Urine samples were prepared across a wide concentration range for 20 target analytes, and the methods were also applied to 20 anonymized authentic urine samples.Both workflows used a 15-minute LC separation on an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/products/1952">ACQUITY HSS C18 column</a> under positive electrospray ionization. In the targeted Tof-MRM mode, selected precursor ions were isolated and fragmented, with quantifier and qualifier ions monitored for sensitive quantitative analysis. In contrast, Tof-MSE operated in a data-independent mode, alternating between low and elevated collision energies to collect accurate-mass precursor and fragment-ion information for a broad range of compounds. Data were processed in the waters_connect platform using MS Quan for Tof-MRM and UNIFI with the Waters Toxicology Library, containing more than 2,100 drugs and metabolites, for Tof-MSE.The targeted Tof-MRM method provided the highest sensitivity, with limits of detection ranging from 0.05 to 0.5 ng/mL in fortified urine. The broader Tof-MSE workflow achieved LODs of approximately 0.5 to 5 ng/mL. When both strategies were applied to authentic urine samples, they showed excellent qualitative agreement. Importantly, Tof-MSE detected additional compounds outside the predefined target panel, including commonly encountered medications, benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and illicit drug substances that would not have been captured by the targeted method alone.Overall, the study shows that Tof-MRM can deliver sensitivity comparable to conventional tandem-quadrupole LC-MS/MS for targeted urinary drug analysis, while Tof-MSE adds broader sample characterization and retrospective screening capability. Used together, the two acquisition strategies provide a flexible approach that combines sensitive quantification of predefined analytes with expanded screening for unexpected or previously untargeted drug substances in complex biological samples.</div></div></div></div></div></div></section></div></div>

News from LabRulezLCMS Library - Week 39, 2026

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Based in Berlin, KNAUER is a medium-sized, owner-managed company that has been serving the sciences since 1962. We develop and manufacture scientific instruments of superior quality for liquid chromatography, including: Analytical HPLC/UHPLC, Preparative HPLC, Fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC), Multi-column chromatography/Simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography. High pressure dosing, in-line detection systems, and osmometry are additional business areas.

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SCIEX

Waters Corporation

The following presentations on structural biology provide insights into recent advancements and methodologies. Prof. Juri Rappsilber’s presentation discusses the integration of cross-linking mass spectrometry with AlphaFold 2 to enhance protein structure prediction. This approach leverages cross-linking data to improve the accuracy of predicted structures, particularly for proteins with multiple conformations, offering a more detailed understanding of protein interactions and dynamics.&nbsp;The second presentation from Hugo Gizardin-Fredon focuses on the application of cryo-electron tomography and mass spectrometry to visualize cellular structures at a molecular level. This combination allows for high-resolution imaging of protein complexes within cells, providing valuable insights into their spatial organization and interactions in different cellular environments.&nbsp;The final presentation from Dr Kish Adoni highlights the development of novel cross-linkers and their application in structural biology. By using different chemistries, researchers can obtain more accurate and detailed representations of protein complexes, enhancing the understanding of their structural and functional relationships. These advancements collectively push the boundaries of structural biology, offering new tools and techniques for studying complex biological systems.&nbsp;Learning points :<ul><li id="isPasted">Enhanced Protein Structure Prediction: Learn how integrating cross-linking mass spectrometry with AlphaFold 2 improves the accuracy of protein structure predictions, especially for proteins with multiple conformations.&nbsp;</li><li>High-Resolution Cellular Imaging: Discover the application of cryo-electron tomography combined with mass spectrometry to visualize protein complexes within cells, providing insights into their spatial organization and interactions.&nbsp;</li><li>Novel Cross-Linkers in Structural Biology: Understand the development and use of novel cross-linkers to obtain more accurate and detailed representations of protein complexes, enhancing the study of their structural and functional relationships.&nbsp;</li></ul>Who should attend?<ul><li id="isPasted">Structural Biologists and Biochemists: Researchers focused on protein structure and function will gain insights into new techniques and tools for enhancing structural predictions and analyses.&nbsp;</li><li>Cellular and Molecular Biologists: Professionals studying cellular structures and protein interactions will benefit from advanced imaging methods and the integration of mass spectrometry data.&nbsp;</li><li>Bioinformaticians and Computational Biologists: Those working on computational models of protein structures will learn about the latest advancements in predictive algorithms and cross-linking methodologies.&nbsp;</li></ul><h5>Additional Webinars</h5>Take advantage of our growing library of convenient and educational recorded webinars and resources. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/cz/en/home/about-us/events/industrial/analytical-innovations-webinars.html?cid=E.24CMD.EL112.21227.01">Visit our webinars page</a><blockquote>Presenter: Prof. Juri Rappsilber​ (Speaker Title, Technische Universität Berlin)<div>Juri Rappsilber has been one of the pioneers of crosslinking mass ​spectrometry ever since publishing possibly the first investigation of a ​multi-protein complex by this technique in 2000. He has since pushed the ​boundaries of the approach, emphasising accuracy and transparency. Today, ​he is focussing on joining crosslinking with modelling to obtain atomic ​structures of multi-protein complexes in their cellular environment.​Presenter: Hugo Gizardin-Fredon​ (PhD Student, University of Strasbourg)<div>Hugo GIZARDIN-FREDON is PhD Student in structural mass ​spectrometry at the BioOrganic Mass Spectrometry Lab (CNRS ​and University of Strasbourg). His work aims at revisiting the ​different steps of cross-linking mass spectrometry (XL-MS) workflows ​for structural biology and interactomics.</div>Presenter: Dr Kish Adoni​ (University College London)<div>Kish completed his PhD in 2023, in which he developed mass spectrometry ​techniques for the identification of novel protein Post-Translational ​Modifications, as the first PhD student of Dr Aneika Leney. He then began ​his Post Doc with Prof Konstantinos Thalassinos at University College ​London, where he develops and exploits proteomics, crosslinking MS, and ​integrative protein structure prediction techniques in the context of cellular ​function and the development of disease phenotypes.​</div></div></blockquote>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: iHUPO 2024 Reloaded Webinar series

Frontiers in Structural Biology: Techniques, Discoveries, and Applications

The following presentations on structural biology provide insights into recent advancements and methodologies. 

Frontiers in Structural Biology: Techniques & Applications

Join a webinar, where the benefits of automatic preparation of high-purity hydroxide eluents for ion chromatography (IC) applications will be discussed. Learn how this automation can save time, reduce errors, and improve the reliability of your anion analysis. The webinar will cover practical examples for water analysis and compliance with standards like US EPA 300.1, ISO 10304, and US EPA 557. A Q&amp;A session will follow to address your questions.<div>Key learnings of the webinar<ul><li>Benefits of automated hydroxide eluent generation</li><li>How to reduce costs and improve the reliability of your anion analysis</li><li>How to comply with US EPA 300.1 parts A and B, ISO 10304 parts 1 and 4, and US EPA 557 using a new generation of hydroxide-selective columns</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Thomas Schöneck (Product Specialist Ion Chromatography, Metrohm International Headquarters)Presenter: Dr. Vincent Diederich (Product Manager IC Columns, Metrohm International Headquarters)</blockquote></div>

Metrohm: The benefits of automatic hydroxide eluent preparation

The benefits of automatic hydroxide eluent preparation

The benefits of automatic preparation of high-purity hydroxide eluents for ion chromatography (IC) applications.

Traditional column calibration methods in size exclusion chromatography (SEC) often struggle with accuracy and resolution, especially for complex samples. Multi-angle light scattering (MALS) solves these problems by providing direct measurements of molecular weight, size, and conformation, eliminating the need for calibration standards.In this webinar, we’ll discuss how MALS works, its benefits over traditional methods, and explore applications such as polymer degradation, branching analysis, and copolymer characterization. Discover how MALS can improve the precision of your polymer analysis and overcome common SEC limitations.Key Learning Objectives:<ul><li>Learn about the challenges and inaccuracies associated with conventional methods in polymer analysis and how they affect the results.</li><li>Discover how MALS overcomes the limitations of traditional calibration methods by providing direct measurements of molecular weight, size, and conformation, ensuring more accurate polymer characterization.</li><li>Gain insights into real-world applications of MALS, including polymer degradation, branching analysis, copolymer characterization, and FFF separation for UHMW polymers.</li></ul><div>Who Should Attend:<ul><li>Polymer chemists seeking advanced analytical characterization capabilities.</li><li>Researchers involved in synthetic, biopolymer, and functional polymer characterization.</li><li>Lab Managers looking to understand state-of-the-art instruments that enhance analytical capabilities.</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Udayabagya Halim, Ph.D. (Senior marketing analyst, Waters | Wyatt Technology)Bud Halim is a senior marketing analyst at Wyatt Technology, holding a B.S. and Ph.D. in physical chemistry from UCLA. He began his career as an adjunct professor, teaching Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, and Physical Chemistry, while also editing and contributing to several laboratory manuals. Prior to joining Wyatt Technology, Bud worked as an applications scientist in the scientific instrumentation field, focusing on the characterization of batteries, semiconductors, and soft matter.</blockquote></div>

Waters Corporation: Advancing polymer characterization with light scattering

Advancing polymer characterization with light scattering

How MALS works, its benefits over traditional methods, and explore applications such as polymer degradation, branching analysis, and copolymer characterization.

This webinar will feature insights from the pesticide testing program at NOW Foods, where over 400 unique pesticide residues are screened across GC and LC techniques in hundreds of sample types, including plant-based powders, liquids, and oils. The work evaluates the performance of the Biotage automated homogenization, extraction, cleanup, and concentration workflow against the laboratory’s current workflow.By attending this webinar, you will learn how:<ul><li>Automation of 60-70% of the preparation process allows an analyst to easily and consistently double man-hour efficiency in sample preparation.</li><li>The Biotage automated preparation workflow can analyze the entire panel of 400 unique pesticide residues and produce results equivalent to manual preparation.</li></ul>Key topics include:<ul><li>Analytical goals and technical considerations for multi-residue pesticide analysis.</li><li>A step-by-step comparison of the current and automated preparation workflows.</li><li>Results highlighting equivalent performance of automated and manual workflows, supported by proficiency testing and matrix consistency data.</li></ul><div><blockquote>Presenter: Ally Fairman, PhD (QC Chemist MS Specialist, NOW Foods)Ally Fairman’s passion for science began at a young age, driven by her curiosity and the endless questions she had about the world around her. Ally pursued this passion academically, earning a doctorate in physical chemistry from the University of Oklahoma. Following her graduation, Ally joined the QC Analytical team at NOW Foods, where she quickly became an integral part of the pesticide residue analysis team. In this role, she ensures that the ingredients used in NOW Foods' products comply with federal pesticide regulations, contributing to the company's commitment to quality and safety. NOW Foods, established in 1968, is a family-owned company committed to promoting health and wellness. They offer a diverse range of natural products, including dietary supplements, organic foods, and personal care items. Their mission is to make healthy living accessible through affordable, sustainable, and innovative solutions.Presenter: Evan Walters, MSc (Market Segment Manager, Biotage)Evan Walters is passionate about science and analytical chemistry in environmental, food, and agriculture markets. A trained environmental chemist and geochemist, Evan uses his background in analytical chemistry to connect laboratories with products and workflow solutions to ensure their success. Evan received a Master of Science in Geochemistry from Southern Illinois University and is a published scientific author.</blockquote></div>

Separation Science: Automated Sample Preparation for Multi-Residue Pesticide Analysis by LC-MS and GC-MS

Automated Sample Preparation for Multi-Residue Pesticide Analysis by LC-MS and GC-MS

The Biotage's automated preparation workflow can analyze the entire panel and produce results equivalent to manual preparation.

Sample Preparation for LC-MS and GC-MS Pesticide Analysis

The biopharmaceutical industry is increasingly focused on developing higher drug concentration formulations to improve efficiency, reduce production costs, and meet the growing demands for more potent biologics. As the industry shifts toward more concentrated biologics, there is an urgent need for more efficient and reliable analytical tools to measure concentrations at all stages of production, from process development to manufacturing and release testing.Traditional UV/Vis spectroscopy methods, which rely on fixed pathlengths, face significant challenges when dealing with highly concentrated or limited volume samples, often requiring time-consuming dilution steps. With the growing demand for faster, more accurate results in these increasingly complex workflows, the ability to measure high concentrations quickly and accurately has become a critical need.In this webinar, we will introduce the new CTech™ SoloVPE® PLUS, which utilizes variable pathlength technology (VPT) to enable dilution-free, real-time concentration measurements across a wide range of analytes. We will discuss how this emerging technology addresses the industry's evolving needs for more accurate, faster testing to support the development and release of mRNA-based therapeutics, monoclonal antibodies, and other biologic products. You’ll also learn how VPT can accelerate decision-making, improve productivity, and enhance efficiency in process development, manufacturing, and release testing workflows.Key learning objectives:<ul><li>Understand the challenges posed by traditional UV/Vis spectroscopy methods for highly concentrated or limited volume samples.</li><li>Learn how variable pathlength technology enables dilution-free, real-time concentration measurement for complex biologics workflows.</li><li>Gain insight into how emerging technologies are addressing the industry's evolving demands for higher concentration formulations and faster testing</li></ul>Who should attend:<ul><li>This webinar is ideal for professionals working in biopharmaceutical workflows, including:</li><li>Process Development Scientists</li><li>Analytical Development Scientists</li><li>Quality Control and Quality Assurance Scientists</li><li>Manufacturing Science and Technology (MSAT) Scientists</li></ul><div><blockquote>Presenter: Joe Ferraiolo (Director, Bioanalytics Applications, Repligen)Presenter: Kelly McSweeney (Contributing Editor, C&amp;EN Media Group)</blockquote>&nbsp;</div>

C&EN: Real-Time, Dilution-Free Concentration Measurement Using Variable Pathlength Spectroscopy for Biopharmaceutical Workflows

Real-Time, Dilution-Free Concentration Measurement Using Variable Pathlength Spectroscopy for Biopharmaceutical Workflows

The new CTech™ SoloVPE® PLUS with variable pathlength technology for dilution-free, real-time concentration measurements.

Real-Time, Dilution-Free Concentration Measurement Biopharma

DeepCyte is proud to introduce two pioneering methods which leverage Bruker mass spectrometry technology, HT SpaceM and 13C-SpaceM, that are set to transform drug discovery and precision medicine.HT SpaceM: A high-throughput method for single-cell metabolomics, offering improved cell preparation, advanced MALDI Imaging, and custom multi-well slides. Detect diverse small molecules with high reproducibility and gain deeper insights into cellular metabolism.13C-SpaceM: Study metabolic activity in single cells and tissues through spatial and isotope tracing of glucose-dependent de novo lipogenesis. Uncover single-cell differences and metabolic reprogramming in cancer cells, providing valuable insights into fatty acid dynamics.These approaches provide deeper insights into cellular functions, metabolic pathways, and drug toxicity, addressing challenges that bulk methods miss. Join us in pushing the boundaries of single-cell analysis and exploring how these innovations can enhance your research and development efforts.<div><blockquote>Presenter: Shawn Owens, Ph.D. (Director of Operations, DeepCyte, Copenhagen, Denmark)</blockquote></div>

Bruker: Single-cell insights: DeepCyte innovations with Bruker technologies

Single-cell insights: DeepCyte innovations with Bruker technologies

DeepCyte introduces two methods which leverage Bruker MS technology - HT SpaceM and 13C-SpaceM,.

DeepCyte innovations with Bruker technologies

<h3>Boost your method development capabilities</h3>Creating a reliable and successful method can be challenging at times, especially if you’re dealing with complex matrices. Finding the right balance can take time. Samples need to be properly prepared and figuring out the right parameters for speed and sensitivity involves trial-and-error, which can be time-consuming.We want to help make method development a whole lot easier for you. In our Build an LC-MS/MS method with me webinar series, we will guide you through the steps to create a successful method. These 45-minute sessions are led by an application chemist who will focus on building a method that can be used for detecting illicit drugs in seafood using real data collected in our lab.<h4>Part 1: Source secrets and compound tricks</h4>In this session you will:<ul><li>Begin the method development journey with the conceptualization of an idea and where to find resources to initiate method building</li><li>See a thorough walkthrough of compound optimization with real life examples</li><li>Achieve the highest level of sensitivity possible via source optimization</li><li>Get tips for troubleshooting unfamiliar compounds and recommendations on resolutions</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Diana Tran (Applications Manager, SCIEX)</blockquote>

SCIEX: Build an LC-MS/MS method with me: A 3-part educational webinar series

Source secrets and compound tricks

Begin the method development journey with the conceptualization of an idea and where to find resources to initiate method building.

Extracting PFAS from dirty matrices is a challenging task. With the finalization of the EPA Method 1633 (Analysis of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Aqueous, Solid, Biosolids, and Tissue Samples by LC-MS/MS), the scientific community is closer to reaching that goal. However, the basic pH method in EPA 1633 is not suitable for some of the most complicated matrices, including lipid-rich, full-fish homogenates. Basic methods are lipid-limited and there is an increased likelihood of incomplete separation of PFAS due to significant matrix interferences. This poses a challenge for analyzing PFAS in whole fish (as opposed to fillets or organs) which can provide valuable information about both human and animal exposure through consumption.In addition, many methods focus on the analysis of PFAS in fish fillets with the primary purpose of informing human consumption advisories. However, this is likely not representative of the PFAS burden consumed by aquatic predators, who generally eat most of the fish, if not all. Some internal organs, such as the liver, have higher concentrations of PFAS than the fillet. Analyzing the homogenate of a whole fish provides a holistic view of animal exposure through consumption, as well as exposure for the fish itself.We developed an extraction method that can be used to analyze linear perfluorocarboxylic &amp; perfluorosulfonic acids in lipid-rich, full-fish homogenates. Recoveries of PFCAs &amp; PFSAs were between 73 and 104%, which is comparable, if not improved from, the acceptable range in EPA 1633. This method allowed us to analyze homogenized Pacific Herring and Chinook salmon samples. EPA Method 1633 was tested on these samples, but there was no recovery of target analytes. Using the method in this presentation, linear PFCAs were detected 54% of the time with an average concentration and SEM of 5.2±1.9 ng/g ww. Linear PFSAs were detected in 73% of samples with an average concentration of 1.6±0.2 ng/g ww. As with most other biological samples, the profile of linear PFSAs was predominantly PFOS, which had a detection frequency of 73% and an average concentration of 1.4±0.2 ng/g ww..While this method does have trade-offs with EPA Method 1633, including a smaller amenable suite of analytes, it can be used to determine trophic magnification of PFAS more accurately. Additionally, this method can be used on banked fish samples that have been homogenized before storage, providing an opportunity for historical sample analysis.Key Objectives:<ul><li>Understand the limitations of the basic pH method in EPA 1633 when analyzing lipid-rich, full-fish homogenates.</li><li>Explore a new extraction method that can be used to analyze linear perfluorocarboxylic and perfluorosulfonic acids for a more efficient and accurate analysis.</li></ul><div><blockquote>Presenter: Richard Jack, Ph.D., (Global Market Development Manager, Phenomenex)Presenter: Sydney Brady (Ph.D. Candidate, Indiana University O´Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Bloomington, IN)</blockquote></div>

Phenomenex: Eliminating Matrix Effects in Lipid-rich, Full-Fish Homogenates

Eliminating Matrix Effects in Lipid-rich, Full-Fish Homogenates

Join this webinar to understand the limitations of the basic pH method in EPA 1633 when analyzing lipid-rich, full-fish homogenates.

Eliminating Matrix Effects in Fish Homogenates

Peptides have become one of the most important biopharmaceuticals. The high variability related to chain length and sequence of amino acids offers multiple pharmaceutical applications, and leads to specific demands regarding the production and purification.This seminar therefore aims to provide the knowledge required for development of peptide purification methods based on case studies of up-to-date targets like a GLP-1 agonist and a peptide hormone.<h4>Content</h4><ul><li>How to choose the ideal stationary phase: the most significant aspects to consider and the importance of extensive screening</li><li>What to consider for method development: finding efficient conditions by appropriate selection of solvents, pH and buffers</li><li>From overview to focused gradient: how to optimize a robust preparative method</li><li>Linear scale-up: Understanding the principle, system design and sample collection</li></ul><h4>Who are the seminar for?</h4><ul><li>Advanced and beginners interested in peptides and/or oligonucleotides.</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Julia Bartmann (YMC Europe GmbH)Presenter: Dr. Yannick Krauke (KNAUER Wissenschaftliche Geräte GmbH)</blockquote>

KNAUER: Method development and scale-up in peptide purification

Method development and scale-up in peptide purification

This seminar therefore aims to provide the knowledge required for development of peptide purification methods.

<h4>The Problem:</h4>Buffer exchange and concentration of biologic samples can be time-consuming and frustrating, even with a small number of samples. Achieving precise targets often requires repeated adjustments, costing valuable time and focus.<h4>The Solution:</h4>Unagi is the first fully hands-free benchtop solution for buffer exchange and sample concentration. It automates all the tedious steps typically required, letting you process up to 8 samples at once with starting volumes from 0.5 to 8 mL. With intuitive software and precise process control, Unagi ensures you consistently hit your exchange and concentration targets — with recoveries of 96% or higher.<h4>The Proof:</h4>Join us to see just how easy it is to run buffer exchange or concentration workflows on Unagi. We’ll demonstrate the process using real biologic samples and show how Unagi delivers accurate, consistent results for proteins and mAbs.<blockquote>Presenter: Nelis Denys (Product Manager, Unagi, Unchained Labs)Moderator: Ross Walton, PhD (Sr. Applications Scientist, Unchained Labs)</blockquote>

Unchained Labs: Change it up with hands-free buffer exchange on Unagi

Change it up with hands-free buffer exchange on Unagi

Unagi automates buffer exchange and concentration for biologics—hands-free, fast, and accurate with ≥96% recovery. See it in action in this webinar.