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

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

In the week from February 9, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry<blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a></h4>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over 5 000 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><h5>1. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Process Raman – A Reliable and Versatile Tool for Downstream Process Monitoring and Control for mAb Production</h5><ul><li>Tu, 10.2.2026 16:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5808">Registration</a></li></ul>The presentation highlights how process Raman spectroscopy offers several advantages over traditional in-line UV-Vis analysis for process monitoring and metabolite production control.<h5>2. Bruker: Meet Compact-Q DEER Spectrometer – Your Gateway to Quantum Innovation</h5><ul><li>Tu, 10.2.2026 17:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5757">Registration</a></li></ul>Discover how the Compact-Q DEER spectrometer enables high-fidelity qubit characterization and control, combining advanced microwave architecture, AWGs, and cryogen-free operation.<h5>3. Agilent Technologies: Novel Advancements in Trace Level Determination and Long-Term Stability of Metals in TMAH and UPW Matrices</h5><ul><li>Tu, 10.2.2026 21:30 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/3733">Registration</a></li></ul>Explore novel approaches for trace-level metal determination and long-term stability assessment in TMAH and ultrapure water matrices.<h5>4. AZoM: From First to Best – Introducing the Litesizer DIF Series</h5><ul><li>We, 11.2.2026 15:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5765">Registration</a></li></ul>Join this live webinar introducing the new Litesizer DIF series of laser diffraction particle size analyzers.<h5>5. Anton Paar: Polymer Rheology – Rotational and Transient Measurements on a Polymer Melt</h5><ul><li>We, 11.2.2026 18:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5786">Registration</a></li></ul>Learn how rotational and transient viscosity measurements on rotational rheometers reveal polymer melt flow behavior, from method setup and accessories to data interpretation.<h5>6. Milestone: Practical Guidance to Improve the Journey from Sample to Heavy Metals Analysis for Environmental Labs</h5><ul><li>Th, 12.2.2026 16:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5803">Registration</a></li></ul>Improve heavy metals analysis in environmental laboratories with practical tips on reagents, filtration, cleaning, and workflow optimization to enhance data quality and efficiency.<h5>7. Agilent Technologies: Moving from R&amp;D and Limited QC on a UV-Vis-NIR Instrument to Large-Scale QC Using an Autosampler</h5><ul><li>Th, 12.2.2026 20:00 CET</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/2104">Registration</a></li></ul>This presentation covers key aspects of adding and using an autosampler to maximize UV-Vis-NIR QC workflows when scaling from R&amp;D to routine quality control.

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 07/2026

LA-ICP-MS imaging, particularly in TOF mode, provides rapid, high-resolution elemental maps of complex geological materials, but quantitative accuracy is often limited by heterogeneous mineralogy. This study introduces a workflow using UMAP for unsupervised dimensionality reduction combined with k-means clustering to segment mineral phases directly from per-pixel elemental data.Cluster compositions are matched to known minerals based on stoichiometry, allowing phase-specific normalization and reducing quantification errors by up to 60%. Validated on dawsonite-bearing sandstones, the approach enables consistent phase-resolved geochemical comparisons across depth profiles and establishes UMAP as a practical tool for accurate, interpretable multielement imaging.<blockquote><h4>The original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c05398">Mineral Phase-Resolved Quantification in LA-ICP-MS Imaging</a></h4>Barbara Umfahrer, Jakub Buday, Pavel Pořízka, Jozef Kaiser, Paolo S. Garofalo*, and Detlef Günther*Anal. Chem. 2026, 98, 1, 581–589<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c05398">https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c05398</a><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote>Selected sections from the article follow. Formats and hyperlinks were adapted from the original.Since its introduction in 1985, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(1)</a> Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) has matured into a routine technique for both qualitative and quantitative elemental analysis, finding use in diverse fields such as geology, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(2−4)</a> biology, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(5,6)</a> materials science, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(7)</a> and cultural heritage. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(8,9)</a> Especially in comparison to liquid analysis techniques, the method excels through minimal sample preparation, negligible sample destruction, and low limits of detection, which enable trace element analysis. However, besides the availability of standard reference materials, a longstanding challenge of quantitative LA-ICP-MS is the need for a suitable internal standard to account for variations in ablation rate and transport efficiency, as well as instrumental drift. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(10)</a> Developed for applications in geological matrices, this requirement was elegantly circumvented by Liu et al. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(11)</a> through 100 wt % normalization, which assumes that all detected elements form oxides summing up to 100 wt %. This approach was conceptually inspired by the summed-spectrum normalization calibration procedure introduced by Leach and Hieftje in 2000, which emphasized the use of total signal intensities for robust internal standardization. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(12)</a> The 100 wt % normalization strategy was subsequently extended to the bulk analysis of carbonates. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(13)</a>Concurrently, the advent of time-of-flight (TOF) mass analyzers and the development of fast-washout laser ablation cells <a href="javascript:void(0);">(14−16)</a> have transformed LA-ICP-MS into a powerful imaging tool, capable of generating spatial maps across a variety of sample matrices at high data acquisition rates. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(17−19)</a> Furthermore, in comparison to, e.g., X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) or Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), LA-ICP-MS offers a high depth resolution of approximately 0.2 μm on glass, enabling precise measurement of fine-scale structures not only laterally but also in depth. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(18)</a> However, as the volume and complexity of these elemental images have grown according to the progressive advancement of the method itself, now consisting of gigabytes of data produced within minutes, manual data interpretation has become increasingly impractical. To uncover meaningful details and patterns, researchers have applied multivariate methods such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and k-means clustering to reduce dimensionality and delineate distinct regions within the images. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(20−23)</a> The nonlinear dimensionality reduction technique Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection (UMAP), <a href="javascript:void(0);">(24)</a> which supports data interpretation with its capability to capture and separate subtle local structures, has first been employed to LA-ICP-MS bulk analysis data in 2024, where it was used to classify pyrite samples and discriminate between Pb and Zn deposit types. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(25,26)</a> In combination with elemental imaging, UMAP has recently been applied to biological tissue data sets as an exploratory analysis tool, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(27)</a> further enhancing the ability to visualize and interpret complex elemental distributions.Despite these advances, no existing approach combines the unsupervised segmentation of mineral phases by UMAP with phase-specific normalization. In this study, we introduce a UMAP-driven workflow that (1) automatically segments distinct mineralogical phases within fine-grained geological matrices and (2) applies phase-specific 100 wt % normalization (e.g., oxide <a href="javascript:void(0);">(11)</a> or carbonate <a href="javascript:void(0);">(13)</a>), thereby improving quantification accuracy and enabling phase-specific quantitative interpretation of mineral distributions in complex matrices.<h4>Materials and Methods</h4><h5>LA-ICP-TOFMS Imaging</h5>LA-ICP-TOFMS analyses were performed using a 193 nm ArF excimer laser (GeoLas C, Lambda Physik, Göttingen, Germany) coupled to an ICP-TOFMS instrument (icpTOF 2R, TOFWERK AG, Thun, Switzerland). Ablation was conducted in the modified parallel flow ablation cell (MPFAC) <a href="javascript:void(0);">(16,34)</a> under a He atmosphere (99.999%, Linde Gas Schweiz AG, Dagmersellen, Switzerland) with Ar (99.996%, Linde Gas Schweiz AG) used as the carrier gas. A piezoelectrically driven xyz translational stage (1 nm resolution, SmarAct GmbH, Oldenburg, Germany) enabled precise sample positioning. Laser, stage movement, and ICP-TOFMS data acquisition were synchronized using a custom-built imaging control system. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(19)</a> The system was optimized each day based on maximum sensitivity while ensuring a 238U+/232Th+ intensity ratio of 1.0 to 1.1 on NIST SRM 610 and a 232Th16O+/232Th+ rate of below 0.5%.<h5>LIBS Imaging</h5>The LIBS analyses were performed on a Firefly system (Lightigo, Czech Republic). The laser (1064 nm, 5 mJ, pulse duration ∼10 ns, diameter 6 mm, operating at 50 Hz) was focused on the sample with a singlet lens (focal length 50 mm) to a 30 μm spot. The spatial resolution of the acquired elemental maps, with a size of about 16 mm × 26 mm, was 20 μm. Plasma radiation is collected by a multifiber configuration with a collimator and an optical fiber (400 μm core diameter), which delivered the light to several Czerny–Turner spectrometers (resolution 0.25–0.4 nm). The spectral range of the spectrometers is 180–850 nm. The radiation is collected 1.5 μs after ablation, with a gate width of 15 μs.Data processing was done with Python 3.11.8 in the Spyder environment and included background correction and per-pixel z-score normalization.<h4>Results and Discussion</h4><h5>LIBS and XRD Measurements</h5>To assess whether carbonate-based normalization <a href="javascript:void(0);">(13)</a> is warranted, first, large-scale LIBS elemental intensity maps of the samples across about a third of the thin sections were acquired. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c05398#fig1">Figure 1</a> reveals the results for “Layer 2” of the Poggio del Gatto sandstone for selected elements. A complete mapping of all four thin sections can be found in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c05398/suppl_file/ac5c05398_si_001.pdf">Figures S3 and S6</a> in the Supporting Information. The maps reveal that C is strongly enriched in fracture veins as well as in finer-grained domains within the matrix and correlates with Ca, indicating carbonate minerals rather than oxides. Bulk XRD analysis identifies calcite alongside quartz, plagioclase, white mica, and kaolinite. These complementary observations confirm calcite as a major phase and thus justify the need for performing the 100 wt % normalization on a carbonate basis for pixels representing calcite.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Anal_Chem_2026_98_1_581_589_Figure_1_LIBS_elemental_intensity_maps_of_the_data_set_from_Layer_2_of_the_Poggio_del_Gatto_sandstone_mounted_on_a_microscope_slide_73ada1b7b8.jpg" alt="Anal. Chem. 2026, 98, 1, 581–589: Figure 1. LIBS elemental intensity maps of the data set from “Layer 2” of the Poggio del Gatto sandstone mounted on a microscope slide, depicting calcite veins and fine-grained structures within the matrix, underlining the need for carbonate-based normalization for specific pixels. Emission lines for evaluation are shown in the corresponding subfigure title. The epoxy used to fix the thin section on the slide is visible along the margin." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Anal_Chem_2026_98_1_581_589_Figure_1_LIBS_elemental_intensity_maps_of_the_data_set_from_Layer_2_of_the_Poggio_del_Gatto_sandstone_mounted_on_a_microscope_slide_73ada1b7b8.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="2088" height="414"><h5>Renormalization Based on Carbonates</h5>Applying an oxide-based normalization to carbonate samples will introduce composition-dependent biases that cannot immediately be generalized as a singular numerical value. The difference between the molecular masses of carbonate CO32– and its oxide equivalent O2– yields an intrinsic bias on the order of a factor of about two, depending on the stoichiometry. Once this data is renormalized to a total of 100 wt %, the magnitude of the error becomes highly dependent on the specific elemental composition of the sample. An exemplary calculation illustrating this effect for a representative calcite pixel is provided in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/suppl/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c05398/suppl_file/ac5c05398_si_001.pdf">Table S2</a>, yielding a relative error of 79%. In practice, this error varies across the image according to the local phase composition. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c05398#fig6">Figure 6</a> illustrates the impact of normalization approaches for layer 2 of the samples as well as the spatial distribution of the resulting relative error. The figure presents Ca and Si elemental maps in two rows, while the first three columns compare different normalization strategies: normalization based on all oxides, normalization based on all carbonates, and a pixel-wise normalization guided by mineral phase identification, as outlined in the workflow proposed in this study. The final column displays the relative error between the bulk oxide- or carbonate-based normalization and the pixel-wise, phase-informed normalization.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Anal_Chem_2026_98_1_581_589_Figure_6_Comparison_of_normalization_strategies_for_Ca_and_Si_LA_ICP_TOFMS_elemental_maps_in_Layer_2_ce3a0c1a5c.jpg" alt="Anal. Chem. 2026, 98, 1, 581–589: Figure 6. Comparison of normalization strategies for Ca and Si LA-ICP-TOFMS elemental maps in “Layer 2” of the Poggio del Gatto sandstone. Rows show Ca (top) and Si (bottom); columns compare (1) oxide-based normalization, (2) carbonate-based normalization, (3) pixel-wise, phase-informed normalization (this study), and (4) relative error between the first two and the phase-informed approach." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Anal_Chem_2026_98_1_581_589_Figure_6_Comparison_of_normalization_strategies_for_Ca_and_Si_LA_ICP_TOFMS_elemental_maps_in_Layer_2_ce3a0c1a5c.jpg 202w," sizes="100vw" width="2088" height="1622">For Ca (in this matrix primarily associated with calcite, a dominant carbonate phase in our samples), the relative error depicted quantifies the effect of applying oxide-based normalization across the entire image. This results in a systematic overestimation of the Ca concentration by approximately 60%. Conversely, for Si─in this matrix found mainly in quartz and various plagioclase phases─the error is shown for applying carbonate-based normalization across an oxidic matrix. In such cases, the Si concentrations are underestimated by roughly 10% to 40%, depending on the mineral phase.These findings highlight that using a single normalization scheme across heterogeneous samples introduces substantial quantification errors. To mitigate this, the pixel-wise phase segmentation enabled by the proposed UMAP-based workflow offers a significant advantage, especially in fine-grained matrices. In short, phase-aware, pixel-wise normalization combines the strengths of both normalization approaches and proves to be highly beneficial.<h4>Conclusion</h4>This study demonstrates that phase-specific normalization, guided by unsupervised phase segmentation of LA-ICP-MS images, can substantially improve the accuracy of elemental quantification in fine-grained geological matrices. Rather than relying on a single global assumption (e.g., all oxides or all carbonates), the workflow adapts normalization to the actual mineralogy, minimizing systematic errors and enabling phase-resolved geochemical interpretation.The segmentation step, based on UMAP embedding and k-means clustering, is fully unsupervised. However, the subsequent matching of clusters to specific minerals still relies on a limited set of preidentified stoichiometries and is therefore not yet fully unsupervised. Expansion to larger stoichiometric databases could help overcome this limitation and move toward automated mineral classification. A key challenge remains the similarity of cation ratios in certain mineral groups, which may still require complementary data to ensure robust assignments.Overall, beyond the specific case of the Poggio del Gatto sandstone presented in this study, this work provides a framework for quantitative elemental imaging of complex geological samples and is readily transferable to other contexts that require spatially resolved composition-aware normalization. This contribution adds a practical implementation to a growing literature that already uses multivariate statistics to unlock the immense information depth of LA-ICP-TOFMS.

Mineral Phase-Resolved Quantification in LA-ICP-MS Imaging

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

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

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Thermo Scientific Element 2 HR-ICP-MS

Perform accurate and reliable quantitative multi-element analyses at trace level, with the highest sensitivity and without complicated sample preparation with the Thermo Scientific™ Element™ 2 HR-ICP-MS.

Clean up your spectra. Make your analysis easy. High-Resolution ICP-MS is made for the most flexible and reliable analyses, for the best analytical results. Perform accurate and reliable quantitative multi-element analyses at trace level, with the highest sensitivity and without complicated sample preparation. The Thermo Scientific™ Element™ 2 and Element XR™ High Resolution ICP-MS systems cover the mg/L to sub pg/L concentration range—making them especially suitable for semiconductor, geological and material science laboratories.The Element 2 and Element XR High-Resolution ICP-MS provide class-leading elimination of interferences for the highest level of confidence. With ultra-sensitive and reliable multi-element analyses at trace-level concentrations, there’s no need for complicated sample preparation and method development.In mass spectrometry, spectral interferences occur when the mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) of interfering ions overlap with analyte ions. These interferences are the primary limitation of ICP-MS. Fortunately, there’s a better way. The high mass resolution potential of a sector-field mass spectrometer can physically distinguish and separate an analyte from interferences by exploiting small differences in mass-to-charge. Therefore, high resolution (HR) ICP-MS can quantify concentrations and determine precise isotope ratios for elements across nearly the entire periodic table, regardless of the sample matrix.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:779/639;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Element_2_HR_ICP_MS_3960103a20.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ Element™ 2 HR-ICP-MS: High mass resolution (R = 10,000) takes advantage of slight mass differences to analyze elements in the most challenging sample matrices. As an example, Arsenic (75As) in a chlorine matrix is masked by argon chloride (40Ar35Cl, 38Ar37Cl) without using high resolution." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Element_2_HR_ICP_MS_3960103a20.jpg 190w," sizes="100vw" width="779" height="639"></figure>High mass resolution (R = 10,000) takes advantage of slight mass differences to analyze elements in the most challenging sample matrices. Arsenic (75As) in a chlorine matrix is masked by argon chloride (40Ar35Cl, 38Ar37Cl) without using high resolution. Selenium (Se) is another key element that benefits from high resolution in common matrices. Beyond chloride matrices, high resolution is frequently applied to separate oxide, argide and nitride interferents, as well as multiply charged ions.<ul><li>Low resolution analyzes non-interfered isotopes with the highest sensitivity.</li><li>Medium resolution guarantees interference-free analysis for most elements in the majority of matrix types.</li><li>High resolution provides unequivocal separation of analytes and interferences in the most challenging matrices</li></ul>The simplicity of high-resolution ICP-MS allows the most advanced performance, without compromising on straightforward and reliable method development. This makes the Element series the platform of choice in top-level research and metrology institutions, as well as advanced routine analysis laboratories across the globe.<h3>Features and benefits</h3><ul><li>High mass resolution: Accurately measure isotope signals separate from spectral interferences and produce clean elemental spectra while retaining flexibility.</li><li>Straightforward analytical methods: Providing visual confirmation of accurate measurements.</li><li>Interference removal: no use of reactive gases.</li><li>High sensitivity: Get accurate and precise multi-element analysis down to pg·L-1 concentrations for all resolutions. The Element XR HR-ICP-MS increases the linear dynamic range by an additional three orders of magnitude for maximum flexibility.</li><li>Ideal for transient multi-elemental signals, such as laser ablation, HPLC, GC, CE, FFF.</li><li>High-precision isotope ratios.</li><li>An advanced research tool with the reliability and robustness to serve in 24/7 production control.</li></ul><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:650/542;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Element_2_HR_ICP_MS_2_b2de21a704.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ Element™ 2 HR-ICP-MS" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Element_2_HR_ICP_MS_2_b2de21a704.jpg 187w," sizes="100vw" width="650" height="542"></figure><h3>Element 2 HR-ICP-MS</h3>The workhorse for semiconductor applications.The high performance, double-focusing magnetic sector field Element 2 HR-ICP-MS is optimized for ease-of-use, stability and productivity. Get access to a powerful technique for solving specific problems with excellent sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio.

Thermo Scientific Element XR HR-ICP-MS

Clean up your spectra. Make your analysis easy. High-Resolution ICP-MS is made for the most flexible and reliable analyses, for the best analytical results. Perform accurate and reliable quantitative multi-element analyses at trace level, with the highest sensitivity and without complicated sample preparation. The Thermo Scientific™ Element™ 2 and Element XR™ High Resolution ICP-MS systems cover the mg/L to sub pg/L concentration range—making them especially suitable for semiconductor, geological and material science laboratories.The Element 2 and Element XR High-Resolution ICP-MS provide class-leading elimination of interferences for the highest level of confidence. With ultra-sensitive and reliable multi-element analyses at trace-level concentrations, there’s no need for complicated sample preparation and method development.In mass spectrometry, spectral interferences occur when the mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) of interfering ions overlap with analyte ions. These interferences are the primary limitation of ICP-MS. Fortunately, there’s a better way. The high mass resolution potential of a sector-field mass spectrometer can physically distinguish and separate an analyte from interferences by exploiting small differences in mass-to-charge. Therefore, high resolution (HR) ICP-MS can quantify concentrations and determine precise isotope ratios for elements across nearly the entire periodic table, regardless of the sample matrix.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:779/639;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Element_2_HR_ICP_MS_3960103a20.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ Element XR™ HR-ICP-MS: High mass resolution (R = 10,000) takes advantage of slight mass differences to analyze elements in the most challenging sample matrices. As an example, Arsenic (75As) in a chlorine matrix is masked by argon chloride (40Ar35Cl, 38Ar37Cl) without using high resolution." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Element_2_HR_ICP_MS_3960103a20.jpg 190w," sizes="100vw" width="779" height="639"></figure>High mass resolution (R = 10,000) takes advantage of slight mass differences to analyze elements in the most challenging sample matrices. Arsenic (75As) in a chlorine matrix is masked by argon chloride (40Ar35Cl, 38Ar37Cl) without using high resolution. Selenium (Se) is another key element that benefits from high resolution in common matrices. Beyond chloride matrices, high resolution is frequently applied to separate oxide, argide and nitride interferents, as well as multiply charged ions.<ul><li>Low resolution analyzes non-interfered isotopes with the highest sensitivity.</li><li>Medium resolution guarantees interference-free analysis for most elements in the majority of matrix types.</li><li>High resolution provides unequivocal separation of analytes and interferences in the most challenging matrices</li></ul>The simplicity of high-resolution ICP-MS allows the most advanced performance, without compromising on straightforward and reliable method development. This makes the Element series the platform of choice in top-level research and metrology institutions, as well as advanced routine analysis laboratories across the globe.<h3>Features and benefits</h3><ul><li>High mass resolution: Accurately measure isotope signals separate from spectral interferences and produce clean elemental spectra while retaining flexibility.</li><li>Straightforward analytical methods: Providing visual confirmation of accurate measurements.</li><li>Interference removal: no use of reactive gases.</li><li>High sensitivity: Get accurate and precise multi-element analysis down to pg·L-1 concentrations for all resolutions. The Element XR HR-ICP-MS increases the linear dynamic range by an additional three orders of magnitude for maximum flexibility.</li><li>Ideal for transient multi-elemental signals, such as laser ablation, HPLC, GC, CE, FFF.</li><li>High-precision isotope ratios.</li><li>An advanced research tool with the reliability and robustness to serve in 24/7 production control.</li></ul><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:650/542;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Element_2_HR_ICP_MS_2_b2de21a704.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ Element™ 2 HR-ICP-MS" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Element_2_HR_ICP_MS_2_b2de21a704.jpg 187w," sizes="100vw" width="650" height="542"></figure><h3>Element XR HR-ICP-MS</h3>The gold standard for full elemental screening in high dynamic range laser ablation and solution work, and for large isotope ratios applications.The combination of a dual-mode SEM with a Faraday detector increases the linear dynamic range by an additional three orders of magnitude. This enables analysis of any matrix element straight without further dilution or precautions to avoid detector damage from inadvertently measuring high level elements.

Thermo Scientific Neoma MS/MS MC-ICP-MS

The Neoma MS/MS MC-ICP-MS is the first dedicated collision/reaction cell MC-ICP-MS with unique pre-cell mass filtering technology, allowing you to separate out isobaric interferences.

<div><div id="product-description">Separate out isobaric interferences to achieve new levels of precision and accuracy in your isotope research. There are some situations when even the highest resolution is not enough and isobaric interferences cannot be resolved, even with the best ICP-MS instruments available. Thermo Scientific™ Neoma™ MS/MS MC-ICP-MS provides the solution.The Neoma MS/MS MC-ICP-MS is the first dedicated collision/reaction cell MC-ICP-MS with unique pre-cell mass filtering technology, allowing you to separate out isobaric interferences and opening up new avenues in the field of laser ablation MC-ICP-MS and beyond.</div><div><h3>Modes</h3><ul><li>Full transmission mode: High-precision isotope analysis without utilizing the collision/reaction cell technology. Additionally, the pre-cell mass filter can be used to remove matrix elements, boosting sensitivity and improving abundance sensitivity.</li><li>Collision/reaction cell mode: For isotope systems with significant isobaric interferences, patented pre-cell mass filter technology removes matrix elements that might act to cause secondary reactions in the CRC.</li></ul><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:650/468;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Neoma_MS_MS_MC_ICP_MS_0986e1671d.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ Neoma™ MS/MS MC-ICP-MS." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Neoma_MS_MS_MC_ICP_MS_0986e1671d.jpg 217w," sizes="100vw" width="650" height="468"></figure><h3>Applications</h3><ul><li>In-situ Rb-Sr dating: Unprecedented precision for dating geological samples by a combination of the pre-cell mass filter, the collision/reaction cell and the multicollector detector array.</li><li>Interference-free Ti isotope analysis: The pre-cell mass filter can be used to remove molecular and doubly charged interferences, and the collision/reaction cell can be used to remove isobaric interferences.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_001006_sr_ioms_b_isotopes_an001006_en_90167475a4.pdf">In-situ boron isotope analysis of biogenic carbonates</a>: Unprecedented accuracy LA-MC-ICP-MS analysis by using the pre-cell mass filter to remove interferences from scattered Ca4+ ions on 10B</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/an_001035_ioms_mc_icp_ms_neoma_potassium_an001035_em_en_913d82d28d.pdf">K isotope analysis</a>: Interference of 40Ar+ can hamper the precision and accuracy of the K isotope analysis. Remove the 40Ar+ interference with either: (1) the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/BRE0014262">eXtra High Resolution (XHR)</a> of Neoma MC-ICP-MS, or (2) for smaller sample sizes, the use of H2 and He in the collision/reaction cell to neutralize 40Ar and 40ArH</li></ul><h3>Technology options</h3><ul><li>Extended choice with 24 amplifier array: Ion current amplifiers are mounted in a doubly shielded, evacuated and thermostatted housing with a temperature stability of 0.01°C/hour, to guarantee baseline and gain stability.</li><li>Enhanced variable detector array: Precise alignment of all 11 cups with ion beams of different dispersions to ensure the flexibility to cover isotopic applications from Li through to U, in low or high resolution, and without compromising the native dispersion of the mass analyzer.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/BRE0025160">Jet Interface</a>: The Jet Interface, in combination with a desolvating nebulizer system, increases sensitivity by 10 to 20 times compared to standard wet plasma.</li><li>Choice of resolution: 3 different mass resolutions for maximizing the sensitivity of your analysis whilst allowing interferences to be resolved.</li><li>Flexibility of detector types: A flexible, three-detector system spanning &gt;9 orders of magnitude in signal intensity range (1 cps – 6 Gcps). The central channel is equipped with a dual-mode detector that can be switched from Faraday cup to SEM ion counter, and with the proprietary relay matrix, any amplifier can be assigned to any of the Faraday cups via software.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/IQLAAMGAATFAPTMZZZ">1013Ω amplifier technology</a>: Ensures fast response times with extremely low noise characteristics. The benefits of Faraday cups can be realized at low signal intensities (30 kcps – 3 Mcps), delivering external precisions that approach the ultimate limits of counting statistics.</li></ul></div></div>

Thermo Scientific Neoma multicollector ICP-MS (MC-ICP-MS)

Perform routine isotope analysis or explore novel isotopes in unknown materials using the Thermo Scientific Neoma multicollector ICP-MS (MC-ICP-MS).

<div><div id="product-description">Perform routine isotope analysis or explore novel isotopes in unknown materials using the Thermo Scientific Neoma multicollector ICP-MS (MC-ICP-MS). This ICP-MS system builds on our multicollector technology to deliver all the advantages of high-precision isotope ratio analysis, with none of the limitations. It includes state-of-the art software and hardware, features flexible and sensitive detector technology, a sensitive ion source and excellent mass resolving power, enabling challenging isotope analyses.Now Neoma MC-ICP-MS comes with the upgrade pathway to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1675">Thermo Scientific™ Neoma™ MS/MS MC-ICP-MS</a>, the first dedicated collision/reaction cell MC-ICP-MS with unique pre-cell mass filtering technology. Allowing you to separate out isobaric interferences and opening up new avenues in the field of laser ablation MC-ICP-MS and beyond.</div><div><h3>Technology that transforms your science</h3>Building on the strength of our multicollector technology, the Neoma MC-ICP-MS system blends the cutting-edge and field-proven technologies found in Thermo Scientific high-resolution isotope ratio mass spectrometers and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products?category=232&amp;manufacturerItems=3&amp;search=iCAP%E2%84%A2+Qnova">Thermo Scientific™ iCAP™ Qnova ICP-MS systems</a>:<ul><li>Robust iCAP Qnova ICP-MS source</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/BRE0025160">Jet interface</a>: for highest sensitivity and stability in wet and dry plasma</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/BRE0014262">Extra High resolution (XHR)</a>: enabling hydride interference removal</li><li>Limit breaking detector array: 11 moveable collectors. No limitations</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/IQLAAMGAATFAPTMZZZ">1013 Ω Amplifier Technology</a> with extended dynamic range</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/BRE0024689">Retarding Potential Quadrupole (RPQ)</a>: for excellent abundance sensitivity enabling accurate quantification of extreme isotope ratios</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/BRE0024305">Multi Ion Counting (MIC)</a> packages: dedicated for specific nuclear and geochronology applications.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1489">Thermo Scientific™ Qtegra™ Intelligent Scientific Data Solution™ (ISDS) Software</a>: for ultimate ease of use and flexibility in instrument control and method design.</li></ul><figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:650/403;" src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Thermo_Scientific_Neoma_multicollector_ICP_MS_MC_ICP_MS_2_a36be9f4b3.jpg" alt="Thermo Scientific™ Neoma™ multicollector ICP-MS (MC-ICP-MS)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Thermo_Scientific_Neoma_multicollector_ICP_MS_MC_ICP_MS_2_a36be9f4b3.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="650" height="403"></figure><h3>High-precision isotope ratio analysis, simplified</h3><ul><li>Delivers performance with market-leading sensitivity, isotope ratio precision and accuracy</li><li>Features the latest hardware and software making the system easier to use than legacy MC-ICP-MS systems</li><li>Offers operator-focused <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/products/1489">software</a>, with integrated first- and third-party peripheral control to streamline workflows and enhance productivity</li><li>Enables high throughput for routine applications while retaining the flexibility required for researching new applications</li></ul><h3>Break through the noise</h3>There are some situations when even the highest resolution is not enough. Isobaric interferences cannot be resolved even with the best ICP-MS instruments available. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.thermofisher.com/order/catalog/product/IQLAAMGAATFARHMBNK">Thermo Scientific™ Neoma™ MS/MS MC-ICP-MS</a>&nbsp;provides the solution.For users familiar with triple quad ICP-MS technology, the Neoma MS/MS MC-ICP-MS represents the next leap forward in terms of precision and accuracy. With a similar structure of filter, react, separate, the Neoma MS/MS MC-ICP-MS allows for the effective removal of isobaric interferences without compromising sensitivity, with the additional benefit of simultaneous isotope analysis, for ultimate precision and accuracy of your isotope ratio.</div></div>

Products from category ICP/HRMS distributed by Thermo Fisher Scientific (EMEA) - page 1

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