<div><p><strong>In 2025, two outstanding young female researchers, Drs. Filipa Oliveira and Stella Gonsales, both originally from outside the Czech Republic, received prestigious JUNIOR STAR grants from the Czech Science Foundation (GAČR). JUNIOR STAR enables early career researchers to establish their own independent research groups and significantly advance their scientific careers. Their projects reflect cutting-edge research in materials science and sustainable chemistry, highlighting the international reach and welcoming research environment at UCT Prague.</strong></p><p><strong>Dr. Stella Gonsales is also a&nbsp;laureate of the Dagmar Procházková Fund, which supports promising scientific projects in sustainable and advanced organic chemistry. Another recipient of this grant is Dr.&nbsp;Anna Valunchene, whose research complements UCT Prague’s&nbsp;sustainability goals. This dual funding underlines Stella’s&nbsp;remarkable achievements and the wide scope of innovative research at UCT Prague.</strong></p><p><strong>Both Filipa and Stella are actively looking for motivated students and researchers to join their teams, offering a&nbsp;unique opportunity to work at the forefront of science in a&nbsp;vibrant and supportive environment.</strong></p></div><div><h3><strong>Interview with Filipa Oliveira: Pioneering tubular MXenes for supercapacitor energy storage</strong></h3><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_V_prestizni_soutezi_GACR_uspely_dve_zahranicni_vedkyne_z_VSCHT_2_da6e538579.jpeg" alt="VŠCHT Prague: JUNIOR STAR Grants at UCT Prague: Two talented women from abroad driving innovation in science: Filipa Oliveira" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_V_prestizni_soutezi_GACR_uspely_dve_zahranicni_vedkyne_z_VSCHT_2_da6e538579.jpeg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="1500" height="999"></p><h5><strong>Congratulations on receiving the JUNIOR STAR grant. What does this achievement mean for you and how will it influence your next steps?</strong></h5><p>Thank you. It’s&nbsp;a huge achievement to receive this prestigious grant. It gives me the opportunity to establish my own research group here at UCT Prague. The JUNIOR STAR program supports talented young scientists in building their teams and accessing resources. This means I&nbsp;now have the support to focus fully on my research about tubular MXenes and their application in supercapacitors.</p><h5><strong>Why are tubular MXenes so innovative for energy storage?</strong></h5><p>MXenes are a family of 2D materials with a layered, accordion-like structure and known for their excellent electrical conductivity. Our innovation is to produce them with a tubular morphology, combining the high conductivity and redox activity in superior ion-transport tubular architectures. Their open, hollow structure increases surface area, ion diffusion and charge transport. This could translate to faster, more efficient supercapacitors, critical for sustainable energy technologies.</p><h5><strong>How did your scientific interest lead you to this field?</strong></h5><p>Global challenges around green energy made me focus on materials that can improve energy storage. MXenes stood out because changes in the composition and structure can significantly change their properties. I&nbsp;was curious about how tuning different metallic elements in a&nbsp;tubular morphology can impact how MXenes perform and how to optimize them for practical applications.</p><h5><strong>What challenges have you encountered?</strong></h5><p>One major challenge is their stability: MXenes oxidize quickly which deteriorates performance. Another challenge is understanding how synthesis conditions of both MXenes and their precursors (MAX phases) must be adapted to create and preserve tubular morphologies since their synthesis mechanisms differ from conventional MXenes. Additionally, effectively communicating the project in the funding proposal to show to reviewers why I&nbsp;should obtain this funding was also a&nbsp;challenge, but thanks to mentorship and collaboration, I&nbsp;overcame these hurdles.</p><h5><strong>What motivates you most about working at UCT Prague?</strong></h5><p>The support from colleagues and the excellent technical infrastructure make it a&nbsp;great place to work. Also, being a&nbsp;former member of Professor Sofer’s&nbsp;leading group in 2D&nbsp;materials is inspiring and led me to this achievement.</p><h5><strong>How do&nbsp;you see your professional development going in the future?</strong></h5><p>The grant will help me build my own team, acquire equipment, and develop collaborations. My long-term vision is to contribute significantly to sustainable energy solutions and scientific progress both locally and internationally.</p><h5><strong>You are looking for new team members. What kind of students or scientists do&nbsp;you need?</strong></h5><p>We are currently welcoming enthusiastic master's&nbsp;students, PhD candidates, and postdocs who are passionate about materials science and eager to explore new frontiers in MXenes and energy storage. If you love curiosity-driven research and want to be part of a&nbsp;growing international team, we encourage you to join us.</p><h3><strong>Interview with Stella Gonsales: Catalysis as a&nbsp;key to polymer recycling</strong></h3><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/VSCHT_Praha_V_prestizni_soutezi_GACR_uspely_dve_zahranicni_vedkyne_z_VSCHT_3_3d0ded6274.jpeg" alt="VŠCHT Prague: JUNIOR STAR Grants at UCT Prague: Two talented women from abroad driving innovation in science: Stella Gonsales" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_VSCHT_Praha_V_prestizni_soutezi_GACR_uspely_dve_zahranicni_vedkyne_z_VSCHT_3_3d0ded6274.jpeg 233w," sizes="100vw" width="1499" height="1000"></p><h5><strong>Congratulations on your JUNIOR STAR grant and also being awarded the Dagmar Procházková Fund. What does receiving both mean to you and how will they shape your work?</strong></h5><p>Thank you. Both grants are hugely important. The JUNIOR STAR grant allows me to expand my group and resources for research into catalytic recycling of polymers, while the Dagmar Procházková Fund supports complementary projects such as synthesizing new biodegradable polymers. Together, they help tackle the plastic waste problem from multiple scientific angles.</p><h5><strong>Could you explain your research in layperson’s&nbsp;terms?</strong></h5><p>Most plastics have strong carbon-carbon bonds. We insert more cleavable double bonds into polymers that can be broken down by catalytic reactions called olefin metathesis, making recycling on a&nbsp;molecular level more feasible.</p><h5><strong>What makes the JUNIOR STAR grant particularly important for your research and career development?</strong></h5><p>The JUNIOR STAR grant is a&nbsp;prestigious and highly competitive funding opportunity aimed at excellent early-career scientists within eight years of completing a&nbsp;Ph.D. It provides up to 25&nbsp;million CZK over five years, allowing recipients to establish independent research groups and pursue innovative scientific topics. This grant is crucial for building a&nbsp;solid foundation, acquiring necessary equipment, and recruiting talented team members, enabling the pursuit of ambitious projects that can significantly contribute to both the Czech scientific community and global challenges.</p><h5><strong>What collaborations support your research?</strong></h5><p>The collaboration between UCT Prague and the Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry (IOCB) of the Czech Academy of Sciences primarily provides financial and technical support. The cooperation helps with funding, access to advanced equipment, and operational resources needed for running research projects.</p><h5><strong>What advice would you give young scientists aiming to succeed?</strong></h5><p>I&nbsp;encourage thinking outside the box and combining diverse knowledge you acquire during your career to address complex problems that are exciting and relevant to you.</p><h5><strong>Your laboratory bears the name of Otto Wichterle and was ceremonially opened in the presence of Professor Kamil Wichterle. How does Wichterle’s&nbsp;legacy inspire you personally?</strong></h5><p>Wichterle’<s>’</s>s&nbsp;innovative spirit motivates me to push creative boundaries and pursue novel solutions in sustainable chemistry.</p><h5><strong>What are your visions for the future?</strong></h5><p>I&nbsp;aim to build a&nbsp;research group that advances sustainable polymer recycling, contributing to environmental responsibility and the circular economy.</p><h5><strong>You are recruiting people for your team. What skills do&nbsp;they need to have?</strong></h5><p>We are looking for talented Ph.D. students and postdocs experienced in air-sensitive catalysis techniques. If you want to contribute to transformative research in sustainable chemistry and join a&nbsp;dynamic team, this is a&nbsp;great opportunity.</p></div>

JUNIOR STAR Grants at UCT Prague: Two talented women from abroad driving innovation in science

<p><strong>The clean laboratories of the CEITEC Nano research infrastructure at CEITEC Brno University of Technology house a four-meter-tall TITAN transmission electron microscope for researching materials at the atomic level. This scientific device underwent two significant upgrades this year, entailing the addition of two state-of-the-art technologies: an electromagnetic lens aberration corrector for scanning transmission electron microscopy and an electron energy loss spectrometer equipped with cameras featuring today's most sensitive sensors. Thanks to these upgrades, TITAN has become a state-of-the-art device that can only be found in a few of the world's most advanced laboratories in this configuration.</strong></p><p><strong>The TITAN Themis microscope </strong>was manufactured in 2015 by FEI (now Thermo Fisher Scientific) and has been in use at CEITEC BUT since 2016. At the time of its acquisition, it was one of<strong> the most powerful commercially available electron microscopes</strong>; however, it lacked a corrector for optical defects in the lenses that form the narrow electron beam scanning the sample. This meant limited resolution and a lower ability to analyze the chemical composition and physical properties of materials at the atomic level.</p><p><i>"The latest generation S-CORR aberration corrector allows the electron beam to be focused to a size up to twice smaller than an atom, while also providing a higher electron current. This has led to a significant increase in the resolution and analytical capabilities of the microscope,"</i> explains <strong>Jan Michalička</strong>, guarantor of the TITAN microscope. "<i>Thanks to the new corrector, our microscope achieves the world's highest standard in resolution, specifically less than 50 picometers at an acceleration voltage of 300 keV." </i>For better understanding, he adds a comparison: <i>"Imagine the ratio of the size of a golf ball to that of planet Earth. That is exactly the ratio of an atom measuring 100 pm to a golf ball."</i> Thanks to this resolution, scientists are not only able to image individual atoms, but also to determine their chemical nature through further analysis. This is of fundamental importance, for example, for the development of new catalysts for a more environmentally friendly chemical industry.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_8ebd8d7245.jpg" alt="CEITEC/CEITEC BUT archive: Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories: Differences in resolution before and after the installation of the aberration corrector." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_8ebd8d7245.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="904"></p><p>The new corrector also allows the microscope to achieve high resolution even with low-energy electrons. This is crucial for studying highly sensitive materials such as graphene and other two-dimensional structures, which would be damaged by a stronger electron beam. <i>"Electrons interact strongly with the sample and can damage it at the atomic level, for example, by changing its structure and chemical composition. With the new corrector, we can achieve atomic resolution even at the lowest acceleration voltage of 60 keV, allowing us to study even very sensitive materials in a virtually unchanged state," </i>says Jan Michalička.</p><h4><strong>The additional installation of a corrector at the CEITEC laboratory is unique worldwide</strong></h4><p><strong>Correctors of optical defects in electromagnetic lenses are an exceptional technology</strong> that has completely changed the world of electron microscopy. For a long time, they were considered technically impossible, and the absence of correctors essentially prevented research into the structure and properties of materials at the atomic level. It was not until the 1990s that a group of four scientists – Harald Rose, Max Haider, Knut Urban, and Ondřej Křivánek – succeeded in implementing this technology, for which they received the prestigious Kavli Prize in 2020. <i>“Correctors basically consist of a pair of complex lenses, each containing a series of magnetic multipoles. In the case of the correctors invented by the first three scientists mentioned above, defects are removed by two hexapole lenses. Our new corrector is based on the same concept,”</i> adds Jan Michalička.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_2_c7e74d8554.jpeg" alt="CEITEC/CEITEC BUT archive: Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories: Delivered aberration corrector prior to installation, with the TITAN microscope in the background." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_2_c7e74d8554.jpeg 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2133"></p><p>The additional installation of a corrector is <strong>unique </strong>in itself nowadays. Similarly complex technologies are usually installed during the manufacture of microscopes in the factory, in this case in the Netherlands. However, in Brno, the microscope was successfully upgraded with a corrector under the limited conditions of the laboratory. The installation of the corrector took about four months and required the dismantling of a large part of the microscope. <i>"With this installation, we basically went back to the time when the four scientists mentioned above placed their prototype corrector on an older microscope, thus improving its performance,"</i> says Jan Michalička with a smile, adding that the most difficult part was the precise adjustment of the corrector and the entire optics of the microscope in order to achieve top parameters. <i>"Even though most things are now controlled by computers, there are only a few people in the world who can install and tune a corrector to the highest level of accuracy. We are therefore extremely pleased to have had such experts at our disposal here."</i></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_4_b2cf95fb5c.jpeg" alt="CEITEC/CEITEC BUT archive: Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories: Installation of the aberration corrector – removal of the condenser." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_4_b2cf95fb5c.jpeg 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2133"></p><h4><strong>New spectrometer will enable scientists to see more</strong></h4><p>The second and equally important upgrade to the TITAN microscope is the installation of <strong>the latest generation GIF Continuum HR electron energy loss spectrometer by Gatan</strong>. This is an approximately two-meter-long device installed horizontally under the microscope, whose main component is a magnetic prism that separates the electron beam according to their energy losses. The spectra of these losses provide enormous information about the sample, principally at the atomic level, as they are characteristic of the given state of the atoms, such as the valence arrangement of their electron shell. In combination with the new corrector, the spectra can be used to analyze the chemical bonds, arrangement in the crystal lattice, or the entire range of physical properties of atomic nanostructures down to the level of individual atoms.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_8_fdab871ef5.jpeg" alt="CEITEC/CEITEC BUT archive: Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories: Installation of the spectrometer beneath the microscope, magnetic prism." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_8_fdab871ef5.jpeg 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2133"></p><p>An essential part of the spectrometer are the <strong>state-of-the-art K3 and Stela cameras</strong>, which can directly detect and count individual electrons. At the same time, these cameras are extremely fast and their sensors capture data without noise. <i>"These features of our cameras are key to measuring sensitive or dynamically changing samples and allow us to obtain information that was previously invisible to electron microscopes,"</i> says Jan Michalička.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_9_d8b87903f2.jpeg" alt="CEITEC/CEITEC BUT archive: Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories: Installed high-performance spectrometer cameras." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_9_d8b87903f2.jpeg 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2133"></p><p>Last but not least, the spectrometer will open up completely new possibilities for measuring the magnetic properties of atomic structures. The new spectrometer will also be used for such experiments within the project TERAFIT, which financed this upgrade, and which focuses on research into materials for ultra-high capacity, speed, and energy efficiency in information technology. <i>"The device is fully prepared for advanced experiments and the use of modern software tools, including artificial intelligence,"</i> adds <strong>Vojtěch Uhlíř</strong>, head of the <i>Nanomagnetism and Spintronics</i> research group at CEITEC BUT and one of the TERAFIT project investigators, highlighting the advantages of the spectrometer.</p><p>Together with the corrector, the spectrometer represents a breakthrough in the analysis of material properties, and according to Jan Michalička, CEITEC now has one of the most powerful microscopes available. <i>“In modern materials science, for example, in the development of magnetic memories, quantum materials, or 2D structures, it is necessary to see not only atoms, but also their behaviour in real time, including magnetic states. And it is this spectrometer that pushes the boundaries of what we can see and analyze.</i>” Michal Urbánek, head of the CEITEC Nano laboratories and coordinator of the large research infrastructure <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.czechnanolab.cz/"><strong>CzechNanoLab</strong></a>, agrees with him, adding that the device can now contribute to scientific knowledge on a global scale. <i>“Thanks to its integration into the large CzechNanoLab research infrastructure, this state-of-the-art microscope is accessible not only to scientists from CEITEC, but also to other institutions in the Czech Republic and abroad.”</i></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_10_7a2b57cc6d.jpeg" alt="CEITEC/CEITEC BUT archive: Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories: Final configuration of the TITAN microscope after installation of the aberration corrector and spectrometer." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Upgrade_transmisniho_elektronoveho_mikroskopu_TITAN_zaradil_CEITEC_mezi_elitni_laboratore_10_7a2b57cc6d.jpeg 117w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="2133"></p><blockquote><p>Do you want to know more? Read the<strong> </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ceitec.eu/upgrade-of-titan-transmission-electron-microscope-ranks-ceitec-among-elite-laboratories-expert-version/t11696?secret=40ab0267-ec7e-11f0-8f5d-2ed9ab825d4b"><strong>expert version</strong></a><strong> </strong>of this article.</p></blockquote>

Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories

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

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

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Since its establishment in 2011, CEITEC has quickly developed into a cutting-edge infrastructure for research which performs highly alongside the best institutes in Europe. Among the main priorities of CEITEC are the promotion of a motivating and dynamic international scientific environment, the provision of state-of-the-art research infrastructure, and the policy of open communication and equal opportunities.

CEITEC

The University of Chemistry and Technology, Prague is a natural centre of first-rate study and research in the area of chemistry in Czechia and is one of the country's largest educational and research institutions focused on technical chemistry, chemical and biochemical technologies, material and chemical engineering, food chemistry, and environmental studies.

UCT Prague

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

LECO Tube Furnaces

LECO Cornerstone TF Tube Furnaces deliver high-temperature crucible baking up to 1350 °C, reducing contamination, improving carbon and sulfur accuracy, and cutting energy costs by up to 60%.

<p><strong>The LECO Cornerstone TF Tube Furnaces are versatile, energy-efficient resistance furnaces designed to bake crucibles and significantly reduce contaminants that can interfere with carbon and sulfur analytical results. Engineered for both high- and lower-volume laboratories, the TF series improves data accuracy, repeatability, and operating efficiency while reducing overall energy consumption.</strong></p><h4><strong>Key Features</strong></h4><ul><li>Long-life <strong>molybdenum disilicide heating elements</strong> with an operating temperature range from <strong>800 °C to 1350 °C</strong></li><li><strong>Integrated digital furnace controller</strong> displaying set point or actual temperature with built-in overtemperature protection</li><li><strong>TF4 Quad Tube Furnace</strong><ul><li>Six heating elements</li><li>Enables simultaneous baking of crucibles in <strong>four combustion tubes</strong></li><li>Ideal for demanding, high-volume installations supporting <strong>two to four analytical units</strong></li></ul></li><li><strong>TF2 Dual Tube Furnace</strong><ul><li>Four heating elements</li><li>Efficient solution for lower-volume laboratories supporting <strong>one to two systems</strong></li></ul></li><li>Increased crucible capacity and optimized furnace design deliver up to <strong>60% lower energy consumption</strong> compared to previous models, significantly reducing operating costs</li></ul><h4><strong>Impact of Crucible Preheating on Analytical Results</strong></h4><p>Preheating crucibles in the TF furnaces has a pronounced effect on carbon and sulfur accuracy. When 528-018 crucibles were baked at <strong>1250 °C for 15 minutes</strong>, results for a high-purity iron reference material (certified at 5 ppm carbon and 2 ppm sulfur) showed dramatically improved accuracy and reduced variability.</p><ul><li><strong>Baked crucibles</strong> produced results close to certified values with low standard deviation</li><li><strong>Unbaked crucibles</strong> showed elevated carbon and sulfur levels</li><li><strong>Baked but touched crucibles</strong> demonstrated significant contamination, highlighting the importance of proper handling after baking</li></ul><p>These results confirm that controlled crucible baking is essential for achieving low-level carbon and sulfur determinations with confidence.</p><h4><strong>Energy Efficiency</strong></h4><p>The redesigned TF furnaces use approximately <strong>60% less energy</strong> than previous models. At continuous operation with a full crucible load and a furnace temperature of <strong>1350 °C</strong>, operating cost comparisons clearly demonstrate substantial savings in power consumption, making the TF series both an analytical and economic advantage for modern laboratories.</p><h4><strong>Models</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>TF4</strong> – Quad Tube Furnace</li><li><strong>TF2</strong> – Dual Tube Furnace</li></ul>

LECO Cold Mounting Castable Mounts for Metallographic Sample Preparation

Cold mounting materials from LECO include polyester, acrylic, and epoxy resins designed for porous, brittle, or heat-sensitive samples, ensuring easy handling and excellent edge integrity.

<p><strong>Cold mounting—also known as castable mounting—is a metallographic sample preparation technique that uses liquid mounting media to fully encase a specimen. Common mounting materials include polyester, acrylic, and epoxy resins. After the sample is positioned in a mold, a catalyst is added to initiate curing and hardening of the mounting compound.</strong></p><p>This mounting approach is especially suitable for laboratories with lower throughput but a high diversity of samples. Cold mounting is often the preferred—or required—method for porous, brittle, irregularly shaped, or heat-sensitive specimens that cannot withstand the temperature and pressure of hot mounting. Once cured, the mounted samples are easier to handle during grinding, polishing, and analysis, while preserving edge integrity and microstructural features.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_Zalevaci_kelimky_pro_pripravu_metalografickych_vzorku_2_b63c61bea7.jpg" alt="LECO: Cold Mounting Castable Mounts for Metallographic Sample Preparation" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_Zalevaci_kelimky_pro_pripravu_metalografickych_vzorku_2_b63c61bea7.jpg 178w," sizes="100vw" width="884" height="776"></p><h4><strong>Cold Mounting Media Options</strong></h4><p>We offer a complete range of cold mounting materials to support different laboratory needs and sample types:</p><ul><li><strong>Polyester Resins</strong><br>Polyesters are an economical solution for laboratories processing lower sample volumes and where edge retention is not a primary concern. They allow for fast and straightforward mounting and are well suited for routine applications requiring quick turnaround.</li><li><strong>Acrylic Resins</strong><br>Acrylics cure faster than most other castable mounting materials and offer good abrasion resistance with fair edge retention. They are commonly used when multiple mounts are required and hot mounting is impractical. When used with a pressure chamber, such as the LECOMAT Pressure Vessel, acrylics can produce semi-clear mounts.</li><li><strong>Epoxy Resins</strong><br>Epoxies provide hard, chemically resistant, and abrasion-resistant mounts with excellent edge retention. Although they generally require longer curing times, they offer superior flow characteristics and minimal shrinkage. Long-cure epoxies are ideal for challenging samples and can be vacuum-impregnated to remove trapped air and fill internal voids. Quick-cure epoxy formulations are also available, curing in less than one hour.</li></ul><h4><strong>Available Products (Models)</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>Castolite</strong> – Polyester</li><li><strong>LECOSET 7000</strong> – Polyester</li><li><strong>LECOSET 7008</strong> – Acrylic</li><li><strong>Quick-Cure Epoxies</strong></li><li><strong>Long-Cure Epoxies</strong></li></ul><h4><strong>Accessories and Options</strong></h4><ul><li>Ring molds</li><li>Silicone rubber molds</li><li>Mold cups</li><li>General mounting supplies</li><li><strong>LECOMAT Pressure Vessel</strong> for pressure impregnation and improved clarity</li></ul>

LECO DS20 Hand Grinder for Metallographic Polishing

The LECO DS20 is a compact, cost-effective benchtop hand grinder with sloped PVC platens, water flush, and integrated abrasive storage for efficient metallographic sample preparation.

<p><strong>The LECO DS20 Hand Grinder is a cost-effective, benchtop solution designed to simplify and streamline manual grinding during metallographic sample preparation. With a straightforward, durable design and practical workflow enhancements, the DS20 is ideal for laboratories seeking reliable surface preparation without unnecessary complexity.</strong></p><p>Engineered for ease of use and consistent results, the DS20 provides stable grinding surfaces, efficient debris removal, and integrated storage to support clean, repeatable operation in everyday lab environments.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_DS_20_Rucni_bruska_pro_metalograficke_lesteni_aa51980ffb.jpg" alt="LECO: DS20 Hand Grinder for Metallographic Polishing" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_DS_20_Rucni_bruska_pro_metalograficke_lesteni_aa51980ffb.jpg 213w," sizes="100vw" width="1031" height="757"></p><h4><strong>Key Features</strong></h4><ul><li>Four sloped PVC platens providing flat, non-corroding, and well-drained grinding surfaces</li><li>Individual clamps and guides to keep abrasive paper flat during grinding</li><li>Built-in continuous water flush for effective removal of abrasive swarf</li><li>Closed storage compartment to keep abrasive rolls clean, dry, and readily accessible</li><li>Convenient abrasive paper roll system for fast changes</li><li>Supplied with silicon carbide abrasive rolls in <strong>240, 320, 400, and 600 grit</strong></li></ul><p>The DS20 is a practical choice for laboratories that value simplicity, reliability, and efficiency in manual grinding applications.</p>

LECO BG Series Belt Grinder for Metallographic Sample Polishing

The LECO BG Series belt grinders provide durable, safe, and flexible wet or dry grinding for metallographic and spectrographic sample preparation in single- or dual-belt configurations.

<p><strong>The BG Series belt grinders are designed to deliver durable, safe, and convenient grinding performance for metallographic and spectrographic sample preparation. Available in both single-belt and dual-belt configurations, the BG Series supports efficient material removal while maintaining operator safety and consistent results.</strong></p><p>By combining the grinder with an optional dust collector or a recirculating system, the BG Series can be configured for either dry or wet grinding, making it a flexible solution for a wide range of laboratory workflows. Its robust construction and straightforward operation make it well suited for routine use in production, quality control, and research laboratories.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_BG_Pasova_bruska_pro_lesteni_metalografickych_vzorku_5_adfd9793f2.jpg" alt="LECO: BG Series Belt Grinder for Metallographic Sample Polishing" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_BG_Pasova_bruska_pro_lesteni_metalografickych_vzorku_5_adfd9793f2.jpg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1303" height="691"></p><h4><strong>Key Features</strong></h4><ul><li>Heavy-duty 1 HP (0.75 kW) motor for reliable and consistent grinding performance</li><li>Enclosed belt tension mechanism that prevents belt slippage and improves coolant and debris drainage</li><li>Integrated safety guards to maximize operator protection during operation</li><li>Corrosion-resistant aluminum external surfaces for long service life in laboratory environments</li></ul><h4><strong>Available Models</strong></h4><ul><li><strong>BG30</strong> – Single belt drive configuration</li><li><strong>BG32</strong> – Dual belt drive configuration</li></ul>

LECO SX100 Benchtop Metallographic Saw

SX100M benchtop sectioning machine delivers precise and safe cutting of metals, carbides, composites, and electronic components with a powerful motor and compact, ergonomic design.

<p><strong>The SX100M is an efficient benchtop sectioning machine designed to handle a wide range of materials and applications with precision and reliability. It is an ideal solution for sectioning bar stock, castings, fasteners, tungsten carbide, composite materials, electronic components, weldments, and more. With an approximate maximum sample cut diameter of 2.75 inches, the SX100M delivers dependable performance in a compact laboratory-friendly footprint.</strong></p><p>Equipped with a powerful 3 HP (2.2 kW) motor and a 10-inch (250 mm) blade capacity, the SX100M ensures consistent cutting results even for demanding materials. An integrated electronic mechanical braking system enhances operator safety and improves workflow efficiency.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_SX_100_Stolni_metalograficka_pila_83b2b057c2.jpg" alt="LECO: SX100 Benchtop Metallographic Saw" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_SX_100_Stolni_metalograficka_pila_83b2b057c2.jpg 158w," sizes="100vw" width="1185" height="1175"></p><h4><strong>Key Features</strong></h4><ul><li>Radial arm design for manual operation with an ergonomic, user-friendly working height</li><li>Base aluminum casting combined with a steel hood for durability and long service life</li><li>Integrated safety lock to protect the operator during sectioning</li><li>Built-in 6.6-gallon (25 L) recirculating coolant tank</li><li>Sloped interior floor for efficient coolant flow and reduced debris accumulation</li><li>Electronic mechanical braking system for rapid and safe blade stopping</li></ul><h4><strong>Models</strong></h4><h5><strong>SX100M</strong></h5><ul><li>Power supply options: 230 V or 400 V</li></ul>

LECO PX300 Manual Grinder/Polisher for Metallographic Sample Preparation

PX300 grinder/polisher delivers simple operation and reliable specimen preparation for microhardness and microstructural analysis, offering a compact and durable solution for low-volume metallography labs.

<p><strong>The PX300 Grinder/Polisher Series is designed to emphasize ease of use while consistently producing specimens that are ideal for microhardness testing and microstructural examination. Engineered as an efficient, safe, reliable, and clean solution, the PX300 is particularly well suited for lower-volume metallography laboratories that still demand high-quality, reproducible results.</strong></p><p>With a compact design and durable construction, the PX300 delivers dependable grinding and polishing performance while minimizing operator effort and routine maintenance.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_PX_300_Rucni_bruska_lesticka_pro_pripravu_metalografickeho_vzorku_2_ac80a9624c.jpg" alt="LECO: PX300 Manual Grinder/Polisher for Metallographic Sample Preparation" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_PX_300_Rucni_bruska_lesticka_pro_pripravu_metalografickeho_vzorku_2_ac80a9624c.jpg 244w," sizes="100vw" width="764" height="489"></p><h4><strong>Key Features</strong></h4><ul><li>Spiral bowl design with an automatic bowl wash system to prevent drain clogs and simplify cleanup</li><li>Emergency Stop button for immediate shutdown of grinding operations and enhanced operator safety</li><li>Rugged structural and electronic components designed to withstand demanding laboratory environments</li><li>Clean and reliable grinding/polishing performance suitable for routine metallographic preparation</li></ul><h5><strong>Optional Non-Motorized Head (available at purchase or retrofit)</strong></h5><ul><li>Enables processing of multiple samples simultaneously</li><li>Improves consistency between operators and from run to run</li><li>Enhances throughput and reproducibility in routine applications</li></ul><h4><strong>Models</strong></h4><ul><li><h5><strong>PX300 (Base Model)</strong></h5><ul><li>Power supply: 115 V or 230 V</li></ul></li><li><h5><strong>PX300 (with Non-Motorized Head)</strong></h5><ul><li>Power supply: 115 V or 230 V</li></ul></li></ul><h4><strong>Options</strong></h4><ul><li>Grinding/polishing wheel sizes:<ul><li>8 in</li><li>10 in</li><li>12 in</li><li>200 mm</li><li>250 mm</li><li>300 mm</li></ul></li></ul>

LECO PX Series Automated Metallographic Grinding and Polishing

PX400 and PX500 grinders/polishers deliver easy operation, automated workflows, and reproducible flat specimens with intuitive touch-screen control and advanced cleaning and fluid dispensing features.

<p><strong>The PX400 and PX500 grinders/polishers are designed to emphasize ease of use while consistently delivering exceptionally flat, high-quality specimens. Built with the latest technology, the PX Series provides an efficient, safe, reliable, and clean grinding and polishing solution that helps keep metallography laboratories running smoothly, even in high-throughput environments.</strong></p><p>With an intuitive software interface and a range of smart, operator-focused features, the PX400 and PX500 simplify daily grinding and polishing workflows while ensuring excellent reproducibility across a wide variety of materials and applications.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_PX_Automatizovane_metalograficke_brouseni_a_lesteni_e46f4bd31d.jpg" alt="LECO: PX Series Automated Metallographic Grinding and Polishing" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_PX_Automatizovane_metalograficke_brouseni_a_lesteni_e46f4bd31d.jpg 168w," sizes="100vw" width="800" height="743"></p><h4><strong>Key Features</strong></h4><ul><li>Intuitive touch-screen software with practical tools that simplify grinding and polishing workflows</li><li>Innovative spiral bowl design with an automatic bowl wash system to prevent drain clogs and reduce cleanup</li><li>Slow wheel indexing after cycle completion for easy and safe mount removal</li><li>Individual sample mode with slow holder rotation to simplify mount loading</li><li>More than 30 proven, built-in preparation methods, with the ability to create or download additional methods</li><li>Models available for both fixed-force and individual sample preparation</li><li>Support for up to five programmable, metered fluid dispensers to deliver consistent suspensions and extenders for precise polishing results</li></ul><h4><strong>Models</strong></h4><ul><li><h5><strong>PX400A (Automated)</strong></h5><ul><li>Wheel sizes: 8 in, 10 in, 200 mm, 250 mm</li><li>Power supply: 115 V (PX400A1) or 230 V (PX400A2)</li></ul></li><li><h5><strong>PX400S (Standard)</strong></h5><ul><li>Wheel sizes: 8 in, 10 in, 200 mm, 250 mm</li><li>Power supply: 115 V (PX400S1) or 230 V (PX400S2)</li></ul></li><li><h5><strong>PX500A (Automated)</strong></h5><ul><li>Wheel sizes: 10 in, 12 in, 250 mm, 300 mm, 350 mm</li><li>Power supply: 230 V</li></ul></li></ul>

LECO MX Series Metallographic Sample Mounting Presses

MX400 and MX500 are fully automatic mounting presses with a compact design, touch-screen control, customizable methods, and dual-mount capability for fast, reliable metallographic sample preparation.

<p><strong>The MX400 and MX500 are fully automatic mounting presses designed to accelerate and simplify metallographic sample preparation. With a slim, space-saving 8-inch-wide footprint and an intuitive touch-screen interface, these systems deliver faster mounting cycles, higher throughput, and greater flexibility for a wide range of sample types and mounting materials.</strong></p><p>Both systems combine robust mechanical design with advanced process control, allowing laboratories to create reproducible, high-quality mounts while minimizing operator effort. The MX400 and MX500 are ideal solutions for laboratories looking to remove mounting bottlenecks and improve overall preparation efficiency.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_MX_Fixacni_lisy_pro_metalograficke_vzorky_3_8b3f6d935c.jpg" alt="LECO: MX Series Metallographic Sample Mounting Presses" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_MX_Fixacni_lisy_pro_metalograficke_vzorky_3_8b3f6d935c.jpg 193w," sizes="100vw" width="887" height="717"></p><h4><strong>Key Features</strong></h4><ul><li>Durable solid-steel crossbar closure design that resists wear, avoids jamming, and allows quick, one-handed operation</li><li>Easy-to-use swipe-and-touch user interface for intuitive selection of heating, cooling, and pressure parameters</li><li>Fully customizable mounting methods, with the option to use preconfigured LECO-developed methods</li><li>Variable operating modes optimized for delicate samples and compatible with all common mounting materials</li><li>Low thermal mass design enabling rapid heating and cooling for increased productivity</li><li>Full-size dual mounting capability to reduce bottlenecks and increase sample throughput</li><li>Supports mold sizes of 1.25 inch, 1.50 inch, 30 mm, 40 mm, and 50 mm</li><li>Quick and simple mold size changes on the MX500 model</li></ul><h4><strong>Models</strong></h4><ul><li><h5><strong>MX400</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Supported mold sizes: </strong>1.25 in, 1.5 in, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm</li><li><strong>Power supply: </strong>115 V or 230 V</li></ul></li><li><h5><strong>MX500</strong></h5><ul><li><strong>Supported mold sizes:</strong> 1.25 in, 1.5 in, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm</li><li><strong>Power supply: </strong>115 V or 230 V</li><li>Designed for rapid and easy switching between mold sizes</li></ul></li></ul>

LECO MSX Series Metallographic Sectioning

LECO MSX Series sectioning machines provide precise, reliable cutting from small components to large hardened samples, offering robust construction, flexible fixturing, and manual or automated operation.

<p><strong>The LECO MSX Series of metallographic sectioning machines is designed to meet the needs of laboratories handling samples ranging from very small components to large, hardened parts. With robust construction, precise spindle designs, and flexible fixturing options, the MSX Series delivers reliable, accurate sectioning for routine and demanding metallographic applications.</strong></p><h4><strong>MSX205 – Compact Benchtop Sectioning Machine</strong></h4><p>The MSX205 is an ideal solution for preparing small sections such as electronic components, fasteners, and similar parts. This space-efficient benchtop system supports both linear and radial feed configurations while delivering precise, controlled sectioning.</p><h5><strong>Key Features</strong></h5><ul><li>Advanced spindle design for long service life and precise cuts</li><li>Welded steel construction suitable for demanding lab environments</li><li>Large T-slotted table for fast, flexible sample fixturing</li><li>Channeled coolant drainage to maintain high flow and reduce debris buildup</li><li>Integrated 4.2-gallon (16 L) recirculating coolant system</li><li>Optional integrated Y-table for convenient parallel sectioning</li></ul><h5><strong>Technical Highlights</strong></h5><ul><li>Blade capacity: 8 in (200 mm)</li><li>Motor power: 2.04 HP (1.5 kW), variable speed</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_MSX_Metalograficke_rezani_cc0a792e52.jpg" alt="LECO: MSX205" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_MSX_Metalograficke_rezani_cc0a792e52.jpg 183w," sizes="100vw" width="1930" height="1641"></p><h4><strong>MSX305A – Automated Sectioning for Large Samples</strong></h4><p>The MSX305A Series is engineered for sectioning large and challenging samples, including induction-hardened parts, tool steels, and carburized components. Automated oscillation and servo-pulse sectioning improve cut quality and repeatability across a wide range of materials.</p><h5><strong>Key Features</strong></h5><ul><li>Production-grade spindle supporting up to 14 in (350 mm) blades with 1.25 in (32 mm) arbor</li><li>Heavy-duty welded steel construction</li><li>Manually adjustable Y-axis table for accurate sample positioning and parallel sectioning</li><li>Optional catch basket for small sectioned samples</li><li>Large 15.75 × 15.75 in (400 × 400 mm) T-slotted table and spacious sectioning compartment</li><li>Integrated 30-gallon (115 L) coolant tank with level gauge</li><li>Sealed electronics enclosure with removable side access ports</li><li>Intuitive control panel with dual 5.6 in (142 mm) displays</li></ul><h5><strong>Control and Motion Options</strong></h5><ul><li>Z-axis for manual sectioning (MSX305A1 Series)</li><li>Joystick control for pulse sectioning, blade direction, table direction, and oscillation</li><li>Manual sectioning available on MSX305A2 Series</li></ul><h5><strong>Technical Highlights</strong></h5><ul><li>Motor power: 10.05 HP (7.5 kW)</li></ul><h4><strong>MSX305R – Manual Sectioning for Large Samples</strong></h4><p>The MSX305R Series provides a robust, manually controlled solution for sectioning large samples across a broad range of materials. Its solid construction and flexible table design make it well suited for production and research environments.</p><h5><strong>Key Features</strong></h5><ul><li>Production-grade spindle supporting up to 14 in (350 mm) blades</li><li>Welded steel construction for long-term durability</li><li>Optional catch basket for retaining small cut samples</li><li>15.75 × 15.75 in (400 × 400 mm) T-slotted table with large sectioning area</li><li>30-gallon (115 L) built-in coolant tank with level indicator</li><li>Sealed electronics enclosure with removable side ports</li><li>Easy-to-use control panel</li><li>Z-axis locking feature</li><li>Handwheel-driven X- and Y-table for longitudinal sectioning and precise positioning</li></ul><h4><strong>MSX432 – High-Power Sectioning for Hardened and High-Alloy Materials</strong></h4><p>The MSX432 Series is designed for demanding applications involving large, hardened, or high-alloy materials. Short contact times combined with intense cooling provide true cold-cutting performance, preserving microstructural integrity for metallographic examination.</p><h5><strong>Key Features</strong></h5><ul><li>Advanced spindle design for precise, long-life operation</li><li>Heavy-duty welded steel construction for production environments</li><li>Large T-slotted table for versatile sample fixturing</li><li>Channeled coolant drainage for high flow rates and minimal debris accumulation</li><li>Integrated Y-table for accurate parallel sectioning</li><li>Isolated table design to prevent contamination of linear slides</li><li>High-capacity 39-gallon (150 L) recirculating coolant system</li></ul><h5><strong>Technical Highlights</strong></h5><ul><li>Blade capacity: 17 in (431.8 mm)</li><li>Motor power: 20.1 HP</li></ul>

Products from category Sample preparation - page 1

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