<p><strong>What if you could assess a tumor's metastatic potential — without extensive sample prep — directly from tissue? Rachel Wood is working on exactly that.</strong></p><p><strong>Rachel Wood</strong> is a PhD candidate at Queen's University (Kingston, Ontario),&nbsp;working jointly in the labs of Dr. Richard Oleschuk (Chemistry) and Dr. Chris&nbsp;Nicoll (Pathology &amp; Molecular Medicine). Her research applies Ambient Ionization Mass Spectrometry — specifically the Liquid Microjunction Surface Sampling Probe &nbsp;(LMJ-SSP) and Desorption Electrospray Ionization (DESI) — to profile the metabolomics of non-metastatic and metastatic clear cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC) cell lines. The long-term goal: a rapid, minimally invasive MS-based prognostic tool for kidney cancer.</p><p>This is the first reported use of LMJ-SSP to assess metastatic status in ccRCC —&nbsp;and early PCA results are already showing distinct separation between cell line&nbsp;<br>profiles.</p><h5><strong>In this episode, David and Rachel cover:</strong></h5><ul><li>Why <strong>ccRCC</strong> is such a resistant biomarker problem despite active genomic, proteomic, and metabolomic research</li><li>The clinical stakes of "<strong>diagnosed by accident</strong>" — and what a prognostic biomarker actually needs to do for a clinician</li><li>How AIMS complements (not replaces) LC-MS in a discovery-phase cancer workflow</li><li><strong>LMJ-SSP vs. DESI</strong>: what each technique sees that the other misses, including spatial resolution differences (~1mm vs. ~50µm)</li><li>Why Rachel runs LMJ-SSP on both a triple quad and a Q-TOF — and what each instrument contributes to the same research question</li><li>How her lab repurposed a 3D printer as a custom automated XYZ sampling stage with 50µm movement precision</li><li>Managing high-dimensional metabolomics data across two polarities, two cell lines, and two mass analyzers — the pipeline explained</li><li>What unsupervised machine learning (PCA) showed in early results</li><li>The path from cell lines to excised tumor tissue to, ultimately, liquid biopsies</li><li>Advice for analytical chemists considering work at the chemistry–oncology interface</li></ul><h3><strong>Video Transcription</strong></h3><p><strong>Kidney cancer remains a difficult biomarker problem, particularly when researchers try to distinguish tumors that are likely to behave aggressively from those that are not. In a recent episode of </strong><i><strong>Concentrating on Chromatography</strong></i><strong>, PhD researcher Rachel Wood discussed how she is combining rapid ambient ionization mass spectrometry, LMJ-SSP, DESI, multivariate data analysis, and conventional LC-MS workflows to investigate the molecular differences associated with clear cell renal cell carcinoma and its metastatic potential.</strong></p><h4><strong>Returning to the research question that started it all</strong></h4><p>Wood first encountered kidney cancer research during her undergraduate studies. Although she later moved into a more instrumentation-focused master’s project involving breast cancer, the subject of kidney cancer remained unfinished business.</p><p>When the opportunity arose to choose a PhD project, she returned to the field that had originally sparked her interest in research. She is now conducting her doctoral work at <strong>Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario</strong>, in an interdisciplinary environment spanning chemistry, pathology, molecular medicine, computer science, and clinical research.</p><h4><strong>Why clear cell renal cell carcinoma is such a difficult biomarker problem</strong></h4><p>Wood’s research focuses on <strong>clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC)</strong>, which represents the majority of kidney cancer cases discussed in the interview.</p><p>The difficulty is not a lack of research effort. Genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics studies have all produced promising biomarker candidates. The challenge is that different studies often identify different sets of markers, with relatively little overlap between them.</p><p>Patient-to-patient biological variability further complicates the picture. A candidate biomarker panel that performs well in one cohort may not reproduce equally well in another. Selecting which features deserve further investigation therefore becomes a major analytical and biological challenge.</p><h4><strong>From incidental diagnosis to prognostic information</strong></h4><p>Another difficulty is the way kidney cancer is often discovered.</p><p>Rather than being detected through a dedicated screening program, tumors may be found incidentally during imaging performed for another reason. According to Wood, the ideal solution would be a diagnostic biomarker capable of detecting kidney cancer early. Such a marker is not currently available within the scope of the work she described.</p><p>That places additional importance on <strong>prognostic biomarkers</strong>. Once a tumor has been detected, clinicians need as much information as possible about how aggressive it may be and how likely it is to progress.</p><p>Wood’s current work is therefore not attempting to declare directly that a particular patient has metastatic disease. Instead, the goal is to understand <strong>what changes biologically as a tumor moves from a less aggressive to a more aggressive state</strong>.</p><p>That means asking which molecular pathways change, which mechanisms become altered, and which analytes may eventually provide useful indicators of tumor behavior.</p><h4><strong>AIMS and LC-MS answer different questions</strong></h4><p>A central theme of the interview was the relationship between rapid ambient ionization mass spectrometry and conventional LC-MS.</p><p>Wood is clear that <strong>AIMS is not intended to replace LC-MS</strong>. Instead, she sees the two approaches as complementary.</p><p>AIMS provides a rapid way to obtain a broad molecular overview of a sample with minimal preparation. This makes it especially useful during the discovery phase, when the goal is to gather as much molecular information as possible and identify features that distinguish biological groups.</p><p>LC-MS then becomes valuable when those features need to be separated, characterized more carefully, and quantified with greater confidence.</p><p>In Wood’s workflow, rapid MS screening can therefore help identify which analytes deserve closer attention before more targeted LC-MS investigations are performed.</p><h4><strong>What “minimal sample preparation” actually means</strong></h4><p>The amount of sample preparation required depends strongly on the type of material being analyzed.</p><p>Wood currently works mainly with <strong>cultured human cell lines</strong>, which means much of the preparation begins with growing the cells themselves. Depending on the experiment, the cells may then be chemically lysed or subjected to fixation, paraffin embedding, and sectioning before analysis by <strong>LMJ-SSP</strong> or <strong>DESI</strong>.</p><p>She also notes that the possibilities would be different for freshly excised tumor material. In an appropriate perioperative or biosafety laboratory setting, LMJ-SSP could potentially be used to analyze tumor margins more directly.</p><p>The practical meaning of “minimal preparation” is therefore highly dependent on the sample and the analytical question being asked.</p><h4><strong>Why combine LMJ-SSP and DESI?</strong></h4><p>Rather than choosing between LMJ-SSP and DESI, Wood uses the two approaches because they provide different types of information.</p><p><strong>LMJ-SSP</strong> offers rapid, localized analysis and can accommodate samples with uneven surface topography, which is particularly useful for excised tissue.</p><p><strong>DESI</strong>, by contrast, provides substantially higher spatial resolution. In the workflow described in the interview, DESI can achieve spatial resolution on the order of tens of micrometers, whereas LMJ-SSP operates at a much larger sampling scale depending on probe design.</p><p>That higher spatial resolution is important when moving from simplified cell-line models toward actual tumor tissue, where the molecular organization of different regions may reveal biologically relevant differences.</p><p>Combining both techniques therefore enables researchers to balance speed, surface compatibility, and spatial information.</p><h4><strong>Two mass analyzers for two parts of the same problem</strong></h4><p>Wood also uses two different mass spectrometers in her LMJ-SSP work.</p><p>Most of the discovery work is carried out using a <strong>triple quadrupole mass spectrometer</strong>, particularly because her project focuses strongly on lower-mass analytes and small molecules.</p><p>Once statistically important analytes have been identified, a <strong>Q-TOF</strong> instrument can be used for MS/MS experiments and tentative structural identification.</p><p>The two instruments therefore address different stages of the workflow: one supports broad discovery and comparison, while the other provides additional structural information needed to connect selected features with possible metabolic pathways.</p><h4><strong>Turning a 3D printer into an automated sampling platform</strong></h4><p>One of the most unusual elements of the project is the automated sampling system used with LMJ-SSP.</p><p>Historically, LMJ-SSP measurements could be performed manually or with custom-built XYZ positioning stages. Wood’s laboratory instead adapted a <strong>3D printer</strong> into an automated positioning system.</p><p>Custom software controls the printer and moves the sampling probe with precise control over its X, Y, and Z positions. According to Wood, the system enables movements down to approximately <strong>50 µm</strong> and also controls parameters such as the contact time between the probe and sample and the delay between consecutive sampling events.</p><p>This level of automation improves reproducibility because variables that would otherwise depend on manual operation can be controlled systematically.</p><p>Even the Z-position can be programmed, allowing the probe to operate at constant or varying heights depending on the sample surface.</p><h4><strong>Managing high-dimensional MS data</strong></h4><p>The experimental design creates a large data-analysis challenge.</p><p>Wood is working with multiple cell lines, both ionization polarities, and more than one mass analyzer. To maintain traceability, she analyzes the data in clearly defined subsets.</p><p>A typical workflow might begin with one mass analyzer and one polarity. Within that condition, the lower-aggressiveness and higher-aggressiveness cell models can then be compared directly.</p><p>The data processing pipeline includes steps such as:</p><ul><li>binning,</li><li>normalization,</li><li>transformation,</li><li>dimensionality reduction,</li><li>identification of discriminating molecular features.</li></ul><p>Once relevant features are identified, MS/MS analysis can be used to investigate them further. The same process is then repeated across other polarities and instruments.</p><h4><strong>Unsupervised machine learning reveals distinct molecular profiles</strong></h4><p>Machine learning is particularly valuable because the AIMS datasets are highly dimensional, containing very large numbers of molecular features across multiple samples.</p><p>Wood’s initial analysis has included <strong>principal component analysis (PCA)</strong>, an unsupervised dimensionality-reduction technique.</p><p>The early results are encouraging: the non-metastatic and metastatic cell-line models separate clearly in PCA space.</p><p>That does not itself identify a definitive biomarker panel, but it indicates that the two biological states have distinguishable molecular profiles even though both belong to the same kidney cancer subtype.</p><p>This provides an important foundation for identifying which specific metabolites or molecular pathways may be responsible for the separation.</p><h4><strong>Testing LMJ-SSP for metastatic status</strong></h4><p>A particularly novel aspect of Wood’s project is the use of LMJ-SSP to investigate differences associated with metastatic status.</p><p>She had previously worked on distinguishing healthy and cancerous tissues, where the biological differences are relatively large. Comparing two states within the same cancer type is more demanding because the molecular changes may be much subtler.</p><p>The scientific motivation, however, is strong. Tumors discovered at later stages carry greater concern for metastatic progression, making it important to understand the molecular changes associated with increasingly aggressive behavior.</p><p>For Wood, this made the methodological risk worthwhile: the analytical challenge directly addresses an area where better prognostic information could ultimately have clinical value.</p><h4><strong>A long-term goal: rapid MS-based prognostic testing</strong></h4><p>The long-term vision extends beyond cell-line research.</p><p>Wood is interested in whether rapid, minimally invasive mass spectrometry could eventually contribute to clinical decision-making.</p><p>One possibility would be identifying a diagnostic biomarker in a <strong>liquid biopsy</strong>, potentially using blood or urine. A urine-based marker capable of contributing to earlier detection would be particularly attractive for kidney cancer.</p><p>For prognostic applications, the goal would be slightly different. Once a tumor is discovered, molecular information could help characterize its likely behavior and provide clinicians with additional evidence when deciding between immediate treatment, surgery, or other management strategies.</p><p>Wood emphasizes that such a tool would not replace standard clinical workflows. Instead, it would provide additional molecular information to complement existing diagnostic and pathological approaches.</p><h4><strong>Why interdisciplinary work matters</strong></h4><p>Throughout the interview, Wood repeatedly returns to the importance of collaboration.</p><p>Her research sits at the intersection of analytical chemistry, pathology, oncology, computation, and clinical medicine. No single researcher can remain equally current in all of these fields.</p><p>Working closely with pathologists, computer scientists, surgeons, medical students, and other specialists therefore provides both scientific expertise and a way to stay connected with developments outside one’s immediate discipline.</p><p>For Wood, the biological context has also changed how she thinks about analytical chemistry. Developing a new instrument or method is important, but understanding <strong>who may ultimately benefit from that analytical capability</strong> makes the research more meaningful.</p><p>That patient-centered perspective is now an integral part of how she approaches the project.</p><h4><strong>An intersection full of opportunities</strong></h4><p>Wood describes the interface between analytical chemistry and oncology as an especially exciting area for young researchers.</p><p>The work can range from troubleshooting instrumentation to interpreting pathology, developing statistical methods, and collaborating across disciplines. That diversity creates constant opportunities to learn and to apply analytical chemistry to clinically relevant questions.</p><p>Her project illustrates that modern mass spectrometry research is increasingly about more than generating spectra. It involves connecting instrumentation, spatial sampling, multivariate statistics, machine learning, biological interpretation, and clinical needs into a single analytical strategy.</p><p>And in kidney cancer, where reliable prognostic biomarkers remain difficult to establish, that integrated approach may be particularly valuable.</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>

AIMS vs. LC-MS for Cancer Diagnostics: ccRCC Metabolomics with Rachel Wood

<p><strong>In the week of September 21, the following webinars await you in the field of liquid phase and especially HPLC and LC/MS.</strong></p><blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinars"><strong>👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</strong></a></h4><p><strong>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database</strong> with over <strong>6 000 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars</strong>.</p></blockquote><h5><strong>1. Waters Corporation: Strengthening SPE Workflows for Today’s Laboratory</strong></h5><ul><li>Mo, 21.9.2026 17:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6514">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Learn how to optimize SPE workflows with best practices for sorbent selection, recovery troubleshooting, and reducing matrix effects in modern analytical laboratories.</p><h5><strong>2. Agilent Technologies: From Crude to Candidate: Scaling Preparative Chromatography with Confidence</strong></h5><ul><li>Mo, 21.9.2026 18:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6498">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Learn how to scale preparative chromatography from crude sample to purified candidate, with practical strategies for method development, fraction collection, and method transfer.</p><h5><strong>3. SCIEX: Extending the power of LC MS/MS: advanced workflows with QTRAP®</strong></h5><ul><li>Tu, 22.9.2026 14:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6518">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Discover how MRM³ and QTRAP workflows provide greater selectivity and lower limits of quantification for LC-MS/MS analysis in complex matrices.</p><h5><strong>4. Technology Networks: Improving Efficiency in Routine PFAS Analysis Using EPA Methods 533 and 1633A</strong></h5><ul><li>Tu, 22.9.2026 16:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6517">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Explore how automated QC monitoring and the SCIEX novus V55 system support high-throughput PFAS quantitation using EPA Methods 533 and 1633A.</p><h5><strong>5. Phenomenex: Expanding the Evidence: New Data for More Reliable PFAS Analysis</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 23.9.2026 10:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6522">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Discover how new analytical data and contamination control strategies can improve baseline performance, sensitivity, and reliability in PFAS analysis.</p><h5><strong>6. SCIEX: How is capillary electrophoresis being used to analyze DNA and RNA</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 23.9.2026 11:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6521">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Explore how capillary electrophoresis supports DNA and RNA analysis, from plasmid quality assessment to mRNA impurity profiling, viral vector characterization, and oligonucleotide workflows.</p><h5><strong>7. Thermo Fisher Scientific: A novel monodisperse supermacroporous reversed-phase platform for comprehensive nucleic acid analysis across a broad size range</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 23.9.2026 11:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6476">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Discover how a novel monodisperse supermacroporous reversed-phase platform enables comprehensive nucleic acid analysis across a broad size range, from short oligonucleotides to mRNA.</p><h5><strong>8. Waters Corporation: The Next Frontier in Nitrosamines Testing: Detection and Risk Assessment in Packaging and IV Infusion Bags</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 23.9.2026 16:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6520">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Learn how LC-MS/MS supports nitrosamine detection and risk assessment in packaging materials while addressing extractables and leachables challenges in IV infusion bags.</p><h5><strong>9. MDPI: Membrane Technologies for Water and Food Sustainability</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 23.9.2026 17:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6561">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Explore membrane technologies for water and food sustainability, international research collaboration, and opportunities within the CYTED Program.</p><h5><strong>10. Agilent Technologies: Unlocking Lab Productivity: Automation Opportunities for LC/MS Laboratories</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 23.9.2026 18:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6495">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Discover how automation can increase productivity in LC/MS laboratories by reducing manual tasks, improving workflow efficiency, and supporting scalable analytical operations.</p><h5><strong>11. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Comparison of biocompatible and inert UHPLC systems for LC-UV quantitation of large RNA</strong></h5><ul><li>Th, 24.9.2026 11:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6477">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Learn how the Vanquish Amplify system minimizes metal interactions during LC-UV analysis of large RNA and explore the performance of biocompatible and inert UHPLC systems.</p><h5><strong>12. Agilent Technologies: Next-Generation Pathogen Genomics: The Long-Read Advantage</strong></h5><ul><li>Th, 24.9.2026 16:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6526">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Explore long-read sequencing and automated target enrichment in pathogen genomics and learn how Agilent SureSelect and Magnis NGS support improved pathogen detection.</p><h5><strong>13. Evosep Biosystems: Advancing Plasma Proteomics</strong></h5><ul><li>Th, 24.9.2026 16:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6523">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Discover advances in plasma proteomics and learn how high-throughput analytical workflows can accelerate biomarker discovery and cancer research.</p><h5><strong>14. Waters Corporation: Applications of Multi-Angle Light Scattering for Biotherapeutic Characterization</strong></h5><ul><li>Th, 24.9.2026 17:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://labrulez.com/en-us/all/webinar/6430">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Learn how multi-angle light scattering (MALS) supports confident characterization of monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, and AAV viral vectors.</p>

Webinars LabRulezLCMS Week 39/2026

Forced degradation analysis of recombinant adeno-associated virus serotype 8 based on analytical anion exchange chromatography coupled to orthogonal characterization

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Everything from the world of analytical chemistry in one place. We connect people in solving their problems. At Labrulez you will find all the necessary information easily, quickly and clearly. Stop searching and start finding.

LabRulez

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

Organomation

Tosoh Bioscience

Metrohm

Mettler-Toledo

Bruker

Phenomenex

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Shimadzu Corporation

Evosep Biosystems

Waters Corporation

<div><p><strong>As demand for glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drugs continues to grow, ensuring these products meet regulatory standards while delivering fast, reliable results is critical. Traditional amino acid analysis (AAA) workflows offer valuable quantitative insights into bioprocess conditions during production but are often time-consuming and complex.</strong></p><p>In this webinar we will introduce a streamlined, microwave-assisted UPLC approach designed to rapidly hydrolyze, label, and identify GLP-1 analogs using the Waters AccQ·Tag Ultra Chemistry Kit. Discover how this turnkey solution expedites amino acid analysis while maintaining accuracy and reliability in conjunction with Empower™ Chromatography Data System (CDS) workflows.</p><h4><strong>Why this webinar matters</strong></h4><ul><li>Learn how to accurately assess GLP- 1 analog composition and quantification using AAA workflows.</li><li>Understand the benefits of rapid derivatization and the simplicity of AccQ·Tag Ultra Chemistry Kits.</li><li>Discover how Empower™ Chromatography Data System (CDS) minimizes errors through automated workflows and custom fields</li></ul><p>This webinar is designed for scientists and managers in Quality Control who work with the analysis or testing of critical quality attributes (CQAs) of peptides, proteins, and especially GLP‑1 analogs.</p><p><i>Don't miss it.</i></p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Duanduan Han, Ph.D. (Senior Scientist, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Duanduan Han, Ph.D., is a Senior Scientist at Waters Corporation in Milford, MA. Her work has focused on LC/MS method development and troubleshooting, impurity profiling, raw material screening of GLP-1s, lipid nanoparticles, surfactants, oligonucleotides, mAbs, and other biologic drug products.</p><p>She received her Ph.D. in chemical engineering from Texas A&amp;M University.</p><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Tim Anderson, Ph.D. (Senior Product Manager, Waters Corporation)</p><p>Tim Anderson, Ph.D., has received advanced degrees in Analytical Chemistry and Food Science related to extraction and MS analysis of proteins at Iowa State University. He has industry experience with large manufacturing product analysis and fit-for-use testing.</p><p>Tim has been at Waters working with consumables for 3 years and is Senior Product Manager for AccQ·Tag Ultra solutions.</p></blockquote></div>

Rapid Analysis of GLP-1 Analogs Using Pre-Column Derivatization

Discover microwave-assisted UPLC amino acid analysis workflow for accurate GLP-1 analog characterization using AccQ·Tag Ultra chemistry and Empower CDS.

GLP-1 Analogs analyis by Pre-Column Derivatization

<div><h4><strong>Navigating Challenges and Opportunities for Environmental Testing Labs Under the Revised EU Water Framework Directive</strong></h4><p><strong>The European Commission’s proposed updates to the Water Framework, Groundwater, and Environmental Quality Standards Directives are bringing new responsibilities and opportunities for environmental testing labs. With expanded pollutant lists - including PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and pesticide metabolites - and stricter monitoring and reporting requirements, the landscape of water analysis is rapidly evolving.</strong></p><p>Join the 4th Waters Environmental Webinar Series to explore how your lab can navigate these challenges and turn regulatory change into opportunity.</p><p>Register for free and partner with us to shape the future of European water quality.</p><h5><strong>Why Attend</strong></h5><p>Stay ahead of new EU regulatory demands with insights from leading experts. Gain practical guidance, share experiences with peers, and prepare your lab for the next generation of water quality standards.</p><h5><strong>Highlights</strong></h5><ul><li>New pollutant categories and analytical challenges</li><li>Updates to monitoring protocols and reporting</li><li>Innovative methods to meet revised Environmental Quality Standards</li><li>Strategic guidance for compliance and adaptation</li></ul><p><strong>Lead the change in water analysis—stay ahead, stay compliant, and make a real impact.</strong></p><h4><strong>EPISODE 3: Master the challenging EQS values for endocrine active compounds</strong></h4><h4><strong>What you Will Learn</strong></h4><ul><li>How a sensitive LC-MS/MS supports the detection of estrogens in different water types</li><li>How to develop a method for BPA and further bisphenols in environmental samples</li></ul></div>

Master the challenging EQS values for endocrine active compounds

How a sensitive LC-MS/MS supports the detection of estrogens in different water types

Challenging EQS values for endocrine active compounds

<div><p><strong>Join us for an exclusive webinar featuring two global pioneers in spatial chemical analysis: Jonathan Sweedler from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Carsten Hopf from the Center for Mass Spectrometry and Optical Spectroscopy (CeMOS) at Mannheim University.</strong></p><h4><strong>What you will learn:</strong></h4><ul><li>How advanced multimodal imaging workflows enable highly specific ROI-focused molecular imaging in complex tissues.</li><li>How combining QCL-based IR microscopy, fluorescence microscopy and MALDI Imaging allows rapid feature detection, and deeper molecular analysis.</li></ul><h4><strong>Who should join:</strong></h4><ul><li>Experienced MALDI Imaging users aiming to improve spatial specificity, molecular identification confidence, and sample throughput.</li><li>Scientists and researchers interested in multimodal imaging workflows that integrate IR and fluorescence microscopy to guide targeted MALDI Imaging.</li></ul><h4><strong>Topics covered:</strong></h4><ul><li>New MALDI Imaging strategies for ROI-specific molecular analysis.</li><li>Multimodal integration for rapid tissue screening and biological feature labeling.</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Carsten Hopf, Ph.D.</p><p>Carsten Hopf is a Professor of Bioanalytics and Drug Discovery at Mannheim University of Applied Sciences and the Director of the Center for Mass Spectrometry and Optical Spectroscopy (CeMOS). A leader in MALDI Imaging, his work focuses on advancing various imaging modalities to map the spatial distribution of drugs, lipids, and proteins in tissues and cells for complex diseases, such as cancer and Alzheimer's.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Jonathan Sweedler, Ph.D.</p><p>Jonathan Sweedler holds the Chair in Chemistry at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and is the Editor-in-Chief of Analytical Chemistry. He's a pioneer in analytical neurochemistry, focusing his research on developing ultrasensitive mass spectrometry and imaging tools to uncover the chemical secrets of individual cells and complex tissues.&nbsp;</p></blockquote></div>

Bruker: MALDI Imaging Becomes IR-resistible: Going Multimodal for Advanced Biomedical Insights

MALDI Imaging Becomes IR-resistible: Going Multimodal for Advanced Biomedical Insights

Webinar on multimodal imaging combining MALDI, IR, and fluorescence microscopy for precise ROI-based molecular analysis in tissues.

MALDI Imaging Becomes IR-resistible

<h4><strong>Scalable workflows are no longer a nice‑to‑have in proteomics, they’re essential.</strong></h4><p>In this upcoming webinar series, we explore how standardized, automated proteomics workflows are enabling reproducible results at scale—from discovery to translational and applied research. Hear directly from experts and users as they share practical insights on building robust, high‑throughput workflows that keep pace with growing sample volumes, increasing complexity, and real‑world laboratory demands.</p><p>Join us to learn how scalable proteomics workflows are moving from promise to practice.</p><h5><strong>Automated Mag-Net Enrichment Unlocks Deep and Cost-Effective LC-MS Plasma Proteomics</strong></h5><ul><li>Salla Keskitalo, PhD, LSRI Director Viikki Proteomics Unit, University of Helsinki</li></ul><p>Plasma is an ideal material for proteomics due to its diverse protein content reflecting physiological and pathological states, and its compatibility with minimally invasive sampling. Deep proteomic profiling of plasma is limited by high-abundant proteins that mask the detection of low-abundant proteins. To overcome this, we compared five plasma protein enrichment methods, Mag-Net, ENRICHplus, ENRICHiST, EasySep, and EXONET, against neat plasma using LC-MS proteomics. All five methods substantially increased protein identifications, with Mag-Net, ENRICHplus, EasySep, and EXONET yielding up to 4200 proteins per sample, over 7-fold more than neat plasma, using a 44-minute gradient on the Evosep One and data-independent acquisition on the timsTOF Pro 2. These methods enriched extracellular vesicle-associated proteins while effectively depleting high-abundant proteins. To further enhance performance and scalability, we optimized the Mag-Net protocol by increasing the plasma-to-bead ratio and automated the workflow, including Evotip loading, on the Biomek i5 liquid handler. The automated Mag-Net, combined with the Orbitrap Astral mass spectrometer, yielded up to 4500 proteins per sample with a throughput of 100 samples per day. The automated Mag-Net enrichment strategy enables affordable, scalable, high-throughput LC-MS plasma proteomics, supporting biomarker discovery across large cohorts.</p><h5><strong>Topic to be announced</strong></h5><ul><li>Joachim Smollich, PhD Student, Faculty of Biology, Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann institute of science</li></ul>

Evosep: Scalable Workflows for standardized proteomics

Scalable Workflows for standardized proteomics

Join us to learn how scalable proteomics workflows are moving from promise to practice.

<h3><strong>Demonstration of DirectInject-LC and iC LC</strong></h3><ul><li><strong>DirectInject-LC technology overview</strong></li><li><strong>How to run an experiment with DirectInject-LC</strong></li><li><strong>Transforming HPLC into online PAT</strong></li></ul><p>Calum Welsh of METTLER TOLEDO provides an overview of DirectInject-LC™ - how it works and how to run an experiment. DirectInject-LC™ transforms HPLC into an online technique for reaction analysis that enables scientists to gain the data required to understand complex processes in near real-time.</p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter:</strong> Calum Welsh (Reaction Analysis Group, METTLER TOLEDO)</p><p>Calum Welsh is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in the field of chemistry and product management. Currently serving as a Product Manager for Reaction Analysis at Mettler-Toledo International, Inc. since July 2019, Calum has also held the role of Technology and Application Consultant for AutoChem. Calum completed his Ph.D. and postdoctoral fellowship at The University of Nottingham.</p></blockquote>

Mettler Toledo: Online HPLC Analysis with DirectInject-LC

Online HPLC Analysis with DirectInject-LC

DirectInject-LC turns HPLC into online PAT for real-time reaction monitoring and process understanding.

<p><strong>When titration results fall out of specification, resolving the chemistry is only part of the solution. In regulated pharmaceutical laboratories, it is equally critical to demonstrate control over the workflow that produced the result.</strong></p><p>Unexpected OOS (out of spec) often stem from subtle but significant factors like electrode performance issues, matrix interferences, or poorly optimized Karl Fischer parameters. In this case study focused mini course, Eduardo Simões, Titration Product Specialist, walks through the most frequent pitfalls encountered in potentiometric and Karl Fischer analyses and demonstrates practical, standards aligned strategies to correct them at the bench.</p><p>Building on these corrective actions, Martin Kobler, Senior Product Specialist for Software, demonstrates how compliant digital controls ensure those improvements are consistently applied and defensibly documented. Through structured user roles, controlled method versioning, secure review workflows, and a comprehensive audit trail, participants will see how software transforms troubleshooting into a repeatable, inspection ready process.</p><p>Participants will gain a clear framework for preventing recurring deviations, strengthening data integrity, and maintaining inspection-ready titration workflows. Stick around for a live Q&amp;A to explore how these strategies apply to your own titration challenges.</p><h4><strong>Please plan to attend if you want to: </strong></h4><ul><li>Identify KF and potentiometric failure modes and apply compendial‑aligned corrective actions</li><li>Connect analytical troubleshooting steps to compliant software controls and audit trail documentation Implement best practices that improve method robustness and consistency in a GxP environment</li></ul><h4><strong>Key Learning Points</strong></h4><ul><li>Identify the primary causes of out-of-specification titration results.</li><li>Apply practical, standard-aligned corrective actions for potentiometric and KF analyses.</li><li>Understand how digital controls strengthen data integrity through role management, version control, and secure review workflows Learn how software tools create defensible, audit‑ready documentation.&nbsp;</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Martin Kobler (Sr. Product Specialist, Software, Metrohm USA)</p><p>Martin Kobler is the Senior Product Specialist for Software at Metrohm USA where he supports the OMNIS platform and its integration across laboratory environments. Based in Riverview, Florida, he works within the Marketing – Product Management department and collaborates closely with product teams, technical specialists and customer-facing groups to guide software adoption and ensure users can fully leverage OMNIS capabilities.</p><p>With extensive experience supporting Metrohm’s digital solutions, Martin provides expert instruction on software functions, compliant workflows and method execution. His background includes deep familiarity with customer needs and hands-on guidance that helps laboratories transition smoothly to modernized, secure and audit-ready software ecosystems. He is frequently engaged in internal training, live demos and cross-functional initiatives to strengthen software proficiency across the organization.</p><p>He is based in Riverview and can be reached through his Metrohm USA contact channels.</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Eduardo Simões (Titration Product Specialist, Metrohm USA)</p><p>As the Titration Product Specialist at Metrohm USA in Riverview, Florida, Eduardo Simoes, MSc, leverages 22 years of practical experience in potentiometry and electroanalysis. His expertise spans instrument installations, technical support, and training, gained through extensive field work. He holds bachelor's and master's degrees in analytical chemistry from the University of Campinas, Brazil, providing a strong theoretical foundation for his hands-on approach.</p></blockquote>

Metrohm: From Out-of-Spec Results to Audit-Ready: Controlling Titration in GxP Labs

From Out-of-Spec Results to Audit-Ready: Controlling Titration in GxP Labs

Master KF and potentiometric titration troubleshooting and discover how software workflows improve data integrity, method robustness, and audit readiness.

Controlling Titration in GxP Labs

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div><p><strong>Struggling to keep up with tightening PFAS regulations and shrinking reporting limits? Laboratories are under increasing pressure to deliver faster, more accurate results while managing complex environmental samples. In this Digital Classrooms session, explore a comprehensive approach to PFAS analysis that combines Shimadzu's total solution with an innovative strategy to tackle these challenges effectively.</strong></p><p>This session covers Shimadzu's PFAS capabilities across its analytical platforms — delivering precise quantification and broad-spectrum characterization across different PFAS classes, while MALDI-TOF imaging accelerates rapid screening, allowing labs to triage high-risk samples in minutes while protecting critical LC-MS/MS systems from contamination.</p><p>Whether you work in environmental testing, regulatory compliance, water quality, or research, this session provides actionable insights to improve your PFAS testing capabilities. Join us to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of PFAS analysis. Register Now!</p><h4><strong>Learning Objectives</strong></h4><ul><li>Understand how advanced LC-MS/MS workflows enable sensitive and selective quantification of regulated PFAS compounds in environmental matrices, including strategies to meet tightening reporting limits and evolving regulatory requirements.</li><li>Recognize the value of rapid MALDI-TOF imaging as a high-throughput screening tool for identifying elevated PFAS levels in water samples, enabling efficient sample triage and reducing contamination risk to LC-MS/MS systems.</li><li>Evaluate how integrating screening and confirmatory mass spectrometry approaches improves laboratory efficiency, data confidence, and regulatory readiness in modern PFAS monitoring programs.</li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Dr. Ruth Marfil-Vega (Manager, Sales Headquarters, Global Co-Creation Sales Strategy Office, Shimadzu Corporation)</p><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Caroline Jones (Global MALDI Applications Specialist, Kratos Analytical, Shimadzu Corporation)</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

Shimadzu: Environmental PFAS Testing: Introducing Next-Generation Mass Spectrometry Solutions

Environmental PFAS Testing: Introducing Next-Generation Mass Spectrometry Solutions

Explore advanced PFAS analysis strategies combining LC-MS/MS and MALDI-TOF screening.

PFAS Testing: Next-Generation Mass Spectrometry Solutions

<div><div container-id="cq-colctrl-lt0" comp-id="A1"><div><p><strong>Looking to further elevate your Thermo Scientific Chromeleon CDS skills? Want to learn more about the administration tools for your Chromeleon software setup? Already attended </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/5981"><strong>Administration Console I webinar (tips, shortcuts, and user/access management)</strong></a><strong>? Part II is the next step – focused on system-level management, structured resources, and automation across your Chromeleon software environment.</strong></p><p>In this practical session, we’ll dive into more Administration Console capabilities that help you manage and standardize your setup at scale – from Data Vault configuration and Chromeleon Resources to eWorkflows and automated rollout of updates. You’ll leave with proven approaches for keeping multi-station environments consistent, controlled, and easier to support.</p><h4><strong>What’s different in Part II (vs. </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://lcms.labrulez.com/webinar/5981"><strong>Part I</strong></a><strong>):</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Beyond users &amp; permissions:</strong> Shift from access management to managing Chromeleon Resources and system components.</li><li><strong>System structure &amp; governance: </strong>Learn how Data Vaults support secure, controlled data handling and standardized operations.</li><li><strong>Remote administration: </strong>Explore methods for remotely updating Chromeleon Stations and reducing manual touchpoints.</li><li><strong>Real-world best practices: </strong>Practical guidance to help maintain stability, security, and compliance as environments grow.</li></ul><h4><strong>Who should attend:</strong></h4><p>This session is designed for anyone wanting to learn more about administration of Chromeleon CDS, administrators, lab IT/support teams, and power users who want to take on administration responsibilities – especially those supporting multiple stations or managing standardized deployments.</p><p>Get practical, immediately usable techniques to keep your Chromeleon software setup <strong>scalable, consistent, and supportable</strong> – with less manual effort and fewer surprises.</p><p><i>Cannot attend the broadcast on March 26? Please register anyway to automatically receive the link to the recording.</i></p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Pascal Bächli (Sr. Engineer, Field Applications • Analytical Instrruments Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</p><p>Pascal Bächli is a Sr. Field Application Engineer at Thermo Fisher Scientific with over 12 years of laboratory experience in both GMP and non-GMP environments. He specializes in the administration, implementation, and support of laboratory data systems, including Thermo Scientific Chromeleon CDS and Waters Empower. He supports networked Chromeleon software installations, delivering consulting and user training, and troubleshooting for complex technical and workflow issues.</p><p>Pascal also holds a degree in Business IT, complementing his strong lab background and scientific expertise with deep knowledge of digital systems and business processes. This combination allows him to bridge the gap between the practical challenges scientists face and available technology to deliver efficient and compliant laboratory data solutions.</p></blockquote></div></div></div>

Thermo Fisher Scientific: Chromeleon Admin Console II: System management and automation

Chromeleon Admin Console II: System management and automation

In this practical session, we’ll dive into more Administration Console capabilities that help you manage and standardize your setup at scale

Chromeleon Admin Console II: System management & automation

<p><strong>On March 31, Jennifer Knister, Commercial Product Manager - Process Solutions at Tosoh Bioscience, will discuss the importance of seamlessly scaling up downstream bioprocessing purification efforts from PD to GMP production using pre-packed chromatography columns. Participants will learn about the impact of multi-column chromatography (MCC) on column selection, along with the economics of pre-packed versus self-packed columns in MCC processes at production scale.</strong></p><p>This webinar will introduce SkillPak™ MAX pre-packed columns and present performance data using TOYOPEARL® Super A, a novel Protein A resin.</p><p><strong>After the webinar, ask your questions during the live Q&amp;A session.&nbsp;</strong></p><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Jennifer Knister (Commercial Product Manager - Process Solutions at Tosoh Bioscience)</p></blockquote>

Tosoh Bioscience: Tosoh Tuesday - Scaling Up from Process Development to GMP Production with Pre-packed Columns

Tosoh Tuesday - Scaling Up from Process Development to GMP Production with Pre-packed Columns

This webinar will introduce SkillPak™ MAX pre-packed columns and present performance data using TOYOPEARL® Super A, a novel Protein A resin.

From Process Development to GMP Production

<h5><strong>Key Learning Points</strong></h5><ul><li>Discover how to properly use and maintain your column to maximize its performance and lifespan.</li><li>Understand the physicochemical interactions that take place in chromatography.&nbsp;</li><li>Learn how to select columns and method conditions step-by-step.</li></ul><h5><strong>Who Should Attend</strong></h5><ul><li>Any liquid chromatography users who are looking for tips and best practices on developing proper methods and preventing troubleshooting.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></li></ul><blockquote><p><strong>Presenter: </strong>Koen Askamp (Senior Technical Specialist, Phenomenex)</p><p>Koen Askamp is a Senior Technical Specialist in Phenomenex. He was awarded his BSc and MSc degrees in Molecular Life Sciences at Wageningen University in the Netherlands and joined Phenomenex in 2020 as Technical Sales Consultant. Koen became part of Phenomenex’s global technical support team in 2022 and assists laboratories in training chromatographers and developing analytical methods.</p></blockquote>

Phenomenex: Recipe for Separation: Crafting Your Perfect HPLC Method

Recipe for Separation: Crafting Your Perfect HPLC Method

Discover how to properly use and maintain your column to maximize its performance and lifespan.