<div>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.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.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.</div><div><h3>Interview with Filipa Oliveira: Pioneering tubular MXenes for supercapacitor energy storage</h3><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"><h5>Congratulations on receiving the JUNIOR STAR grant. What does this achievement mean for you and how will it influence your next steps?</h5>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.<h5>Why are tubular MXenes so innovative for energy storage?</h5>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.<h5>How did your scientific interest lead you to this field?</h5>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.<h5>What challenges have you encountered?</h5>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.<h5>What motivates you most about working at UCT Prague?</h5>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.<h5>How do&nbsp;you see your professional development going in the future?</h5>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.<h5>You are looking for new team members. What kind of students or scientists do&nbsp;you need?</h5>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.<h3>Interview with Stella Gonsales: Catalysis as a&nbsp;key to polymer recycling</h3><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"><h5>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?</h5>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.<h5>Could you explain your research in layperson’s&nbsp;terms?</h5>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.<h5>What makes the JUNIOR STAR grant particularly important for your research and career development?</h5>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.<h5>What collaborations support your research?</h5>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.<h5>What advice would you give young scientists aiming to succeed?</h5>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.<h5>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?</h5>Wichterle’<s>’</s>s&nbsp;innovative spirit motivates me to push creative boundaries and pursue novel solutions in sustainable chemistry.<h5>What are your visions for the future?</h5>I&nbsp;aim to build a&nbsp;research group that advances sustainable polymer recycling, contributing to environmental responsibility and the circular economy.<h5>You are recruiting people for your team. What skills do&nbsp;they need to have?</h5>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.</div>

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

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.The TITAN Themis microscope 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 the most powerful commercially available electron microscopes; 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."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," explains Jan Michalička, guarantor of the TITAN microscope. "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." For better understanding, he adds a comparison: "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." 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.<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">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. "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," says Jan Michalička.<h4>The additional installation of a corrector at the CEITEC laboratory is unique worldwide</h4>Correctors of optical defects in electromagnetic lenses are an exceptional technology 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. “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,” adds Jan Michalička.<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">The additional installation of a corrector is unique 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. "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," 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. "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."<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"><h4>New spectrometer will enable scientists to see more</h4>The second and equally important upgrade to the TITAN microscope is the installation of the latest generation GIF Continuum HR electron energy loss spectrometer by Gatan. 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.<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">An essential part of the spectrometer are the state-of-the-art K3 and Stela cameras, which can directly detect and count individual electrons. At the same time, these cameras are extremely fast and their sensors capture data without noise. "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," says Jan Michalička.<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">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. "The device is fully prepared for advanced experiments and the use of modern software tools, including artificial intelligence," adds Vojtěch Uhlíř, head of the Nanomagnetism and Spintronics research group at CEITEC BUT and one of the TERAFIT project investigators, highlighting the advantages of the spectrometer.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. “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.” 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/">CzechNanoLab</a>, agrees with him, adding that the device can now contribute to scientific knowledge on a global scale. “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.”<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"><blockquote>Do you want to know more? Read the <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">expert version</a> of this article.</blockquote>

Upgrade of TITAN transmission electron microscope ranks CEITEC among elite laboratories

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

Article

Scientists

Science and research

Video

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

Metrohm

Anton Paar

Agilent Technologies

Thermo Fisher Scientific

PerkinElmer

Shimadzu Corporation

This discussion will go in depth into how the fully integrated Auto Dilution System (ADS 2) can streamline your ICP-MS workflow. Eliminate bottles and bottle necks by automating the creation of Calibration and QC standards as well as intelligent handling of unknown samples.
Join us to learn how the ADS 2 can streamline your day-to-day ICP-MS workflow and improve your lab efficiency.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Bert Woods (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Joined the Agilent ICP-MS team in 2004, with previous employment in the semiconductor industry with Dominion Semiconductor (IBM/Toshiba) and Micron. Bert is a 1997 Chemistry graduate of Radford University in Virginia and an avid Washington DC Sports fan.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Productive Analysis of High Matrix Samples using ICP-MS with the Integrated Advanced Dilution System

Productive Analysis of High Matrix Samples using ICP-MS with the Integrated Advanced Dilution System

This discussion will go in depth into how the fully integrated Auto Dilution System (ADS 2) can streamline your ICP-MS workflow. 

ICP-MS with the Integrated Advanced Dilution System

TBS... Agilent M Lens for ICP-MS and the Semiconductor Industry
<blockquote>
Presenter: Bert Woods (Application Scientist, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Joined the Agilent ICP-MS team in 2004, with previous employment in the semiconductor industry with Dominion Semiconductor (IBM/Toshiba) and Micron. Bert is a 1997 Chemistry graduate of Radford University in Virginia and an avid Washington DC Sports fan.
</blockquote>

Agilent technologies: Agilent M Lens for ICP-MS and the Semiconductor Industry

Agilent M Lens for ICP-MS and the Semiconductor Industry

High matrix samples, such as those containing high dissolved solids, can often be challenging potentially resulting in poor data quality and instrument performance, leading to excess maintenance.
In this webinar we will discuss the techniques available to deal with these samples.
<blockquote>
Presenter: David Fishwick (Applications Specialist, TEA, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
David joined Thermo in 2022 as an Applications Specialist for the Trace Elemental Analysis product range in the UK and Ireland. Prior to joining Thermo, David has gained experience of trace elemental analysis and chromatography in industry, working in GMP, GLP and UKAS accrediated R&amp;D and pharmaceutical laboratories. David holds a BSc in Chemistry from Bangor University.
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Presenter: Matthew Gregory (Applications Specialist, TEA, Thermo Fisher Scientific)
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After graduating from the University of Surrey with an MChem in Chemistry, Matthew has gained 20 years’ experience of trace elemental analysis in industry, working in environmental and precious metal research laboratories. In 2018, Matthew joined Thermo Fisher Scientific as an Applications Specialist for the Trace Elemental Analysis product range in the UK and Ireland.
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Thermo Scientific: Dealing with the Complexity of High Matrix Samples on ICP-OES and ICP-MS

Dealing with the Complexity of High Matrix Samples on ICP-OES and ICP-MS

Techniques available to deal with these samples.

Complexity of High Matrix Samples ICP-OES amd ICP-MS

Elemental impurities are trace metals or elements that can be present in pharmaceuticals, impacting product safety and efficacy.
USP General Chapter &lt;232&gt; provides guidelines for controlling elemental impurities in pharmaceuticals, ensuring they meet acceptable levels for human consumption. Compliance with USP &lt;232&gt; is crucial for regulatory approval and maintaining product quality and safety.
Register to attend this Webinar and learn:
<ul>
<li>Elemental impurities as per USP 232/USP 233 and ICHQ3D
</li>
<li>Dive into the innovation that powers USP-232 guidelines
</li>
<li>Agilent&#39;s MH software with Agilent&#39;s complete workflow solutions
</li>
<li>Basic maintenance and early maintenance feedback of ICP-MS
</li>
</ul>
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Presenter: Dr. Kuldeep Sharma (Sales Development Manager - Pharma, Agilent Technologies)
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<blockquote>
Kuldeep Sharma has over 19 years of experience in area/s of Bioanalytical research, Drug metabolism &amp; pharmacokinetics and Pharma regulatory compliance. He has accomplished PhD in Biotechnology. His professional journey covers over 12 years in Analytical research (associated with R&amp;D’s of Zydus Cadila, Lambda, Pliva and Jubilant Biosys) and last 7 years in analytical instruments sales, marketing &amp; business development. With over 21 research articles published in international Journals, He presents convention of continues learning.
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<blockquote>
Presenter: Mr. Radhey Shyam (Application Specialist - Spectroscopy, Agilent Technologies)
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<blockquote>
Radhey Shyam is an Application Scientist responsible for Elemental Spectroscopy Solutions at Agilent Technologies at Centre of Excellence (COE) Lab, Manesar. He has been assisting in the development of new methods and applications, as well as providing training and educational activities for customers across various sectors on spectroscopy solutions and technologies for the past 10+ years. He has authored several publications in international journals. In addition, he has also contributed to global application and solution notes from Agilent, with a focus on spectroscopy Market.&quot;
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Presenter: Mr. Ankush Sharma (Regional Marketing Program Manager- APAC (Pharma &amp; Biopharma), Agilent Technologies)
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<blockquote>
Ankush Sharma is a seasoned professional with over 12 years of extensive experience in sales and marketing across the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical sectors. His professional journey commenced with a strong educational foundation, earning a Master&#39;s degree in Biotechnology. Building upon this knowledge, he furthered his academic pursuits by obtaining a Master&#39;s in Business Administration with a specialization in Sales and Marketing, demonstrating his commitment to blending scientific understanding with strategic business acumen. For the past five years, he has been an integral part of Agilent, serving as the Regional Marketing Program Manager for the India and now Asia-Pacific (APAC) region for Pharma and Biopharma Markets.
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Demystifying USP & ICHQ3D Guidelines for Elemental Impurities

Demystifying USP & ICHQ3D Guidelines for Elemental Impurities

Elemental impurities as per USP 232/USP 233 and ICHQ3D.

Demystifying USP & ICHQ3D Guidelines for Elemental Impuritie

As part of the global effort to reduce CO₂ emissions, biofuels are becoming an increasingly important source of green energy.
Quality control testing of biofuels is therefore crucial to ensure the efficiency and reliability of biogas, biodiesel, and fuel ethanol. 
In this webinar you will learn about the latest laboratory testing techniques that are used to ensure the quality, efficiency, and sustainability of modern biofuels to enable producers to confidently meet international regulatory requirements and to promote their widespread adoption in both industry and the wider society at large. 
Experts from Agilent Technologies will introduce a wide range of analytical testing solutions covering multiple technologies that are routinely used to detect organic and inorganic impurities in biodiesel and enable the stringent quality control of fuel ethanol, biogas and biogas blends to be achieved. The expert panel will be available to answer questions from the audience at the end of the presentation. 
<blockquote>
Presenter: Danny van Oevelen (LC Product Specialist, Agilent Technologies)
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<blockquote>
Presenter: Luca Godina (GC &amp; GC/MS Application Specialist, Agilent Technologies)
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<blockquote>
Presenter: Sebastien Sannac (Spécialiste produit spectroscopie atomique, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Donald Inglis (Product Specialist EMEAI for FTIR, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Remko van Loon (GC &amp; GC/MS Product Specialist, Agilent Technologies)
</blockquote>

Agilent Technologies: Comprehensive Quality Control Testing of Biofuels to Ensure a Greener, more Sustainable Future

Comprehensive Quality Control Testing of Biofuels to Ensure a Greener, more Sustainable Future

Learn about the latest laboratory testing techniques that are used to ensure the quality, efficiency, and sustainability of modern biofuels.

Comprehensive Quality Control Testing of Biofuels

Ion chromatography (IC) hyphenated with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) – IC-ICP-MS is the preferred solution for speciation analyses of trace elements such as chromium, arsenic, selenium, or mercury.In this webinar we focus on some key features of the integration of Metrohm IC with Agilent’s MassHunter software for ICP-MS. Based on practical examples such as chromium speciation according to ISO 24384, we demonstrate the benefits of bi-directional communication, real-time status updates, and a single, consolidated sample list streamlining your trace elemental analysis with a single-software solution.<h4>Key learnings of this webinar:</h4><ul><li>Learn why IC is the method of choice for the separation of ionic components for subsequent quantification with ICP-MS</li><li>Explore the features that make Agilent ICP-MS a superior choice for speciation analysis</li><li>Understand the streamlined workflow for chromium speciation according to ISO 24384 using MassHunter ICP-MS</li><li>Understand the added value of inline sample preparation techniques available with Metrohm IC</li></ul><h4>Who should attend?</h4><ul><li>Laboratory managers, analytical chemists, researchers doing trace elemental analysis</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Elke Süss (Application Specialist Ion Chromatography, Metrohm International Headquarters)Elke Süss received a M.Sc. in Geoecology and a Ph.D. in Environmental Geochemistry in 2011 from Bayreuth University, Germany. After a position as laboratory manager at Bayreuth University, she worked as a Research Assistant and then PostDoc at ETH Zürich and Eawag focusing on trace elemental speciation and has more than 10 years of experience with IC-ICP-MS in this field. In 2018, she joined the Ion Chromatography team at Metrohm International Headquarters in Switzerland as an Application Specialist. &nbsp;Presenter:&nbsp;Andrew Brotherhood (Atomic Spectroscopy Application Engineer, Agilent UK)Andrew has over 15 years’ hands-on experience with ICP-MS, ICP-OES and Ion chromatography instrumentation. He has mainly worked in the pharmaceutical analysis industry gaining significant experience with developing and validating methods to pharma regulations.Andrew started working for Agilent as a full-time employee in January 2018 working as an Atomic Spectroscopy Application Engineer based at the Agilent Centre of Excellence in the UK.</blockquote>

Metrohm: Simplify your speciation analysis: Metrohm ion chromatography meets Agilent ICP-MS

Simplify your speciation analysis: Metrohm ion chromatography meets Agilent ICP-MS

Key features of the integration of Metrohm IC with Agilent’s MassHunter software for ICP-MS.

Metrohm ion chromatography meets Agilent ICP-MS

Join us for the ICP-MS event of the year where we will explore how to streamline your ICP-MS workflows and enhance your productivity and elemental research using the latest ICP-MS technology.Our team of experts will unveil the most recent advancements in ICP-MS, showcasing how these innovations can simplify your ICP-MS analysis and help you achieve your analysis goals.<h4>During this webinar, you will learn how to:</h4><ul><li>Optimize your ICP-MS workflows for improved efficiency &nbsp;</li><li>Maximize instrument up-time and productivity&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li>Gain confidence in analysis of high matrix samples &nbsp;</li><li>Approach novel applications with ease and simplicity &nbsp;</li><li>Enhance your research output</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Matthew Cassap (Product Marketing Manager - AAS and ICP-OES Trace Elemental Analysis, Thermo Fisher Scientific) Presenter:&nbsp;Daniel Kutscher (Manager Product Application, Trace Elemental Analysis, Thermo Fisher Scientific)</blockquote>

Thermo Scientific: Ignite Your ICP-MS Workflow for Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity

Ignite Your ICP-MS Workflow for Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity

How to streamline your ICP-MS workflows and enhance your productivity and elemental research using the latest ICP-MS technology.

Ignite Your ICP-MS Workflow for Enhanced Efficiency

In this webinar, hear from the Institute of General and Analytical Chemistry research team at Montanuniversität Leoben (MUL) in Austria.&nbsp;Speakers will outline their research work on identifying and quantifying TCEs (Technology Critical Elements) found in electronic waste. These critical elements, essential for modern technology, pose significant recycling challenges but they also create opportunities to drive industrial innovation while promoting a cleaner, safer environment. MUL’s research contributes to EU initiatives such as the EU Green Deal and the Circular Economy Action Plan, aiming to scale up e-waste recycling processes to meet Europe’s sustainability goals. Join the discussion to see how PerkinElmer’s analytical instruments and supporting solutions help to tackle these issues.Whether you're a scientist, researcher, chemical engineer or environmental regulator, we can help you to confidently test the TCEs that are integral to both recycling industries and environmental monitoring.<h4>LEARNING OUTCOMES:</h4><ul><li>Define and understand TCEs (Technology Critical Elements) in the academic and governmental landscape</li><li>Learn about sampling challenges from e-waste sources such as smartphones, batteries and PCBs</li><li>Learn how to identify and measure metal contamination in urban green spaces</li><li>Get an overview of key elemental analysis techniques such as ICP-MS and ICP-OES for field and laboratory work</li><li>Learn novel mass spec methodologies: Nitrous Oxide and Gas Cell Interaction studies</li></ul>

PerkinElmer: Technology Critical Element Extraction: Transforming E-Waste into Environmental and Industrial Opportunities

Technology Critical Element Extraction: Transforming E-Waste into Environmental and Industrial Opportunities

Identifying and quantifying TCEs (Technology Critical Elements) found in electronic waste.

Technology Critical Element Extraction: Transforming E-Waste

Elemental impurities pose risks to pharmaceutical quality and efficacy, necessitating accurate and precise analysis within drug development and control. Since 2018, ICH Q3D guideline and USP &lt;232&gt; have imposed stringent limits for toxic elements like Cd, Pb, As, and Hg. USP &lt;233&gt; also requires robust sample preparation prior to ICP-OES or ICP-MS analysis. This webinar will discuss microwave-assisted closed vessel digestion as the ideal sample preparation method for compliant elemental analysis.This webinar focuses on sample preparation for elemental impurity analysis in pharmaceuticals, including a survey of the regulatory background of ICH Q3D and USP &lt;232&gt;/&lt;233&gt;. It will provide an overview of sample preparation basics, with a particular emphasis on microwave-assisted acid digestion techniques.Additionally, the session will discuss application examples covering a range of samples, from simpler to more complex substances such as tricyclic and tetracyclic compounds.Essential topics in relation to sample preparation of pharmaceutical products and raw materials for elemental impurity analysis:<ul><li>Regulatory framework overview, with a focus on ICH Q3D and USP &lt;232&gt;/&lt;233&gt; guidelines.</li><li>Fundamentals of sample preparation, emphasizing microwave-assisted acid digestion techniques.</li><li>Practical application examples ranging from simpler samples to highly challenging substances such as tricyclic and tetracyclic APIs.</li><li>Analysis of elements including the "big four" (Hg, As, Cd, Pb) and how to achieve acceptable recovery rates, even for Os.</li></ul>Who should attend?<ul><li>Lab chemists doing trace metal analysis of pharmaceuticals (raw materials and finished products) in R&amp;D, QC or analytical contract labs</li><li>Analytical chemists in state or municipal laboratories</li><li>Laboratory managers of ICP and trace metal labs</li><li>Academic chemists</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Klaus Pichler-Jöbstl&nbsp;Klaus Pichler-Jöbstl holds a degree in Technical Chemistry and Environmental Technology. He started his career in 1996 at Fresenius-Kabi, a global pharmaceutical company. Initially, he led the chromatography department in quality control and subsequently established and managed the method transfer and validation department for all analytical methods, including wet chemistry, physical measurement methods, chromatography, and spectroscopy.Since 2014, Klaus has been at Anton Paar GmbH in Graz, where he leads a team of chemists overseeing all application-related topics from product development to after-sales support for microwave-assisted acid digestion and synthesis instruments.</blockquote>

Anton Paar: USP-Compliant Sample Preparation: Best Microwave Digestion Practices to Prepare Samples for ICP Analysis

USP-Compliant Sample Preparation: Best Microwave Digestion Practices to Prepare Samples for ICP Analysis

This webinar will discuss microwave-assisted closed vessel digestion as the ideal sample preparation method for compliant elemental analysis.

Best MW Digestion to Prepare Samples for ICP Analysis

The complete Solution for Food Analysis: Presented by Retsch, CEM, Shimadzu and EltraAccurate and rapid food analysis is becoming increasingly important as regulations become stricter and consumers become more demanding. This expert day on food analysis will give you a comprehensive overview of the optimal steps from sample preparation to analysis, familiarize you with modern methods and bring you up to date.Registration is free of charge and without obligation.<div><div><div><div><div><h3>Heavy metals and pesticides in highly processed&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</h3>In the third part of the webinar series the focus is on analytics. Each step of food processing presents a source of contamination, which is why highly processed foods (ultra-processed foods (UPF)) should be viewed critically.Heavy metals are analyzed using ICP-MS and pesticides using GCMS/MS and SFC-LCMS/MS. You have the opportunity to get in touch with device experts and discuss your questions.</div></div>In this webinar, you will learn more about:<ul><li>How to measure pesticides in difficult samples using LC-MS/MS and SFC-MS/MS</li><li>Determination of pesticides in food samples using GC-MS/MS with hydrogen as carrier gas</li><li>Challenges and solutions for heavy metal analysis</li><li>How much heavy metals are lurking in trend food products?</li></ul>Presenters: Uwe Oppermann, Stéphane Moreau, Waldemar Weber and Johannes Hesper</div></div></div>

Heavy metals and pesticides in highly processed

Heavy metals are analyzed using ICP-MS and pesticides using GCMS/MS and SFC-LCMS/MS. 

ICPMS webinars focusing on ICP/MS - page 7