Scientists from CEITEC Brno University of Technology led by Markéta Kaiser have achieved a globally unique breakthrough in coral research. Using the live microCT method, they were able, for the first time ever, to observe the growth of living marine corals in real time and reveal the processes behind the formation of their calcium carbonate skeletons, which had previously remained hidden beneath the surface. The results of the international study, published in the prestigious journal Science Advances, show how corals grow, regenerate, and respond to stress and competing organisms.The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.aee3183">study</a> was carried out through a collaboration between researchers from Brno, Vienna, and several other international institutions. A key role was played by the X-ray Micro and Nano Computed Tomography Laboratory (CTLAB) at CEITEC BUT, where all the crucial data and three-dimensional coral models were produced. CEITEC also shares both the first and corresponding authorship of the study.“Thanks to live microCT, we were able, for the first time, to observe what happens beneath the surface of a coral skeleton,” explains Markéta Kaiser from CTLAB at CEITEC BUT. “For example, we witnessed situations where a coral, after being attacked by algae, completely halted its normal growth and began building a protective wall around the threatened area. Once the danger had passed, it was able to resume its original growth pattern.”<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Zivi_korali_jezdili_vlakem_z_Vidne_do_Brna_Vedci_diky_nim_odhalili_jejich_tajny_zivot_540e183e84.jpeg" alt="CEITEC BUT/Jakub Rozboud: Live Corals Traveled by Train from Vienna to Brno. Scientists Uncovered Their Secret Life: Markéta Kaiser, CTLAB CEITEC at CEITEC BUT." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Zivi_korali_jezdili_vlakem_z_Vidne_do_Brna_Vedci_diky_nim_odhalili_jejich_tajny_zivot_540e183e84.jpeg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1067">The scientists successfully captured coral growth both vertically and horizontally, the formation of protective barriers against competing organisms, and regeneration mechanisms following damage.The research was exceptionally demanding from a technological standpoint. The team had to develop a special system that enabled living corals to be safely scanned directly in seawater. The coral colonies regularly traveled by train from Vienna to Brno for measurements and, after several hours, were transported back to professional aquarium systems in Vienna.“At first, it seemed like a somewhat crazy idea. No one knew whether living corals could withstand repeated scanning,” says Kaiser. “Gradually, however, we found that they survived, continued to grow, and provided us with unique data.”<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Zivi_korali_jezdili_vlakem_z_Vidne_do_Brna_Vedci_diky_nim_odhalili_jejich_tajny_zivot_2_fcbb29a4f6.jpeg" alt="CEITEC BUT/Jakub Rozboud: Live Corals Traveled by Train from Vienna to Brno. Scientists Uncovered Their Secret Life: Markéta Kaiser is placing a coral sample into CT for scanning." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Zivi_korali_jezdili_vlakem_z_Vidne_do_Brna_Vedci_diky_nim_odhalili_jejich_tajny_zivot_2_fcbb29a4f6.jpeg 235w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1067">The original concept for the project came from developmental biologist Igor Adameyko of the Medical University of Vienna, who proposed combining marine biology with advanced imaging technologies more commonly used in engineering and technical fields.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Zivi_korali_jezdili_vlakem_z_Vidne_do_Brna_Vedci_diky_nim_odhalili_jejich_tajny_zivot_3_8c5f376f41.jpeg" alt="CEITEC BUT/Markéta Kaiser: Live Corals Traveled by Train from Vienna to Brno. Scientists Uncovered Their Secret Life: Corals CT - 1." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Zivi_korali_jezdili_vlakem_z_Vidne_do_Brna_Vedci_diky_nim_odhalili_jejich_tajny_zivot_3_8c5f376f41.jpeg 228w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1096">The findings of the Brno researchers have already attracted the attention of experts in Okinawa, Japan, who specialize in coral reef research. They plan to use the live microCT method to study the effects of light, photosynthesis, and environmental changes on coral growth.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Zivi_korali_jezdili_vlakem_z_Vidne_do_Brna_Vedci_diky_nim_odhalili_jejich_tajny_zivot_4_445c1cc3b7.jpeg" alt="CEITEC BUT/Markéta Kaiser: Live Corals Traveled by Train from Vienna to Brno. Scientists Uncovered Their Secret Life:Corals CT - 2." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Zivi_korali_jezdili_vlakem_z_Vidne_do_Brna_Vedci_diky_nim_odhalili_jejich_tajny_zivot_4_445c1cc3b7.jpeg 245w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="988">According to the researchers, the project demonstrates the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between engineering and biological sciences. The research could contribute not only to the study and conservation of coral reefs, but also to fields such as paleontology and materials science.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/CEITEC_Zivi_korali_jezdili_vlakem_z_Vidne_do_Brna_Vedci_diky_nim_odhalili_jejich_tajny_zivot_5_514ee9c974.jpg" alt="CEITEC BUT/Markéta Kaiser: Live Corals Traveled by Train from Vienna to Brno. Scientists Uncovered Their Secret Life: Corals CT - 3." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_CEITEC_Zivi_korali_jezdili_vlakem_z_Vidne_do_Brna_Vedci_diky_nim_odhalili_jejich_tajny_zivot_5_514ee9c974.jpg 143w," sizes="100vw" width="1600" height="1750"><blockquote><h4>Original Article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.aee3183">Coral growth, retraction, defense, and regenerative strategies revealed by live microCT</a></h4>Karina Araslanova, Marketa Kaiser, Anton Fetisov, Diana Gavrik, Tomas Zikmund, Daniel Abed-Navandi, Karel Katovský, Jozef Kaiser, Igor AdameykoSci. Adv., 2026, 12, eaee3183<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.aee3183">https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.aee3183</a><h6>licenced 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>Understanding how corals build and remodel their skeletons is key to explaining reef resilience, yet most insights come from static imaging. Using longitudinal live microCT, we tracked the same coral colonies over weeks to months at micrometer resolution. Coral skeleton formation is not a uniform accretion process but a dynamic integration of multiple programs, including vertical and horizontal patterned growth, previously undescribed defensive wall-building against competitors, exploratory edge behavior with reversible expansions and retractions, and skeletal regeneration favoring rapid, imprecise yet effective matrix expansion. Time-resolved imaging links colony-scale growth to microscale events, showing that all modes depend on balances between fusion of skeletal microparticles and layered matrix deposition, guided by tissue prepatterning. Beyond corals, this framework generalizes to studying skeletal dynamics across diverse biomineralizing organisms.

Live Corals Traveled by Train from Vienna to Brno. Scientists Uncovered Their Secret Life 

This study investigates the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of (−)-epicatechin in an in vitro model of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Lipid peroxidation, inflammatory, and profibrotic markers were assessed alongside ATR-FTIR spectroscopy to evaluate whether spectral changes reflect disease progression and treatment response.Epicatechin reduced lipid peroxidation products, TNF-α, and TGF-β1 in a concentration-dependent manner, with stronger protective effects observed during pretreatment. ATR-FTIR spectral changes closely correlated with biochemical markers, demonstrating its potential as a rapid, non-destructive tool for monitoring oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis in MASLD research.<blockquote><h4>The original article</h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c09978">ATR-FTIR Assessment of the Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of (−)-Epicatechin in MASLD</a></h4>Marija Hefer, Nikolina Filipović, Stjepan Šarić, Nela Malatesti, Ana Petrović, Elvira Kovač-Andrić*, and Martina Smolić*ACS Omega 2026, 11, 23, 33333–33344<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.5c09978">https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.5c09978</a><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC-BY 4.0</a></h6></blockquote>Selected sections from the article follow. Formats and hyperlinks were adapted from the original.<div>Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) represents one of the most prevalent chronic liver disorders. Due to its predisposition to progress toward metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), MASLD has become a significant global health burden and a major challenge for healthcare systems. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(1−4)</a>The majority of patients with MASLD or MASH are obese and frequently present with additional metabolic comorbidities, most commonly insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(5−7)</a> Furthermore, most conditions associated with MASLD and MASH are characterized by lipid metabolism impairment, with elevated levels of oxidative stress. Impaired lipid metabolism, together with prolonged oxidative stress, promotes hepatocellular lipotoxicity and mitochondrial dysfunction. These alterations affect the antioxidant defense system and increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, thereby contributing to the onset of MASLD and its progression to MASH, along with more advanced liver diseases. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(8,9)</a>One of the main results of oxidative stress is lipid peroxidation, in which ROS attack (poly)unsaturated fatty acids within membrane lipids. This initiates a series of structural and functional alterations, where the formation of conjugated dienes (CDs) reflects early double-bond rearrangements in fatty acyl chains, while lipid hydroperoxides (LOOHs) represent key propagation-phase products that destabilize cell membranes and increase oxidative injury. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(10,11)</a> Therefore, determining LOOH and CD levels, along with their overall LOOH/CD ratio, might be useful for determining the lipid peroxidation dynamics and the progression of MASLD.Along with oxidative damage to the cell structures, inflammation is also a key regulator of MASLD progression. In this context, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is suspected to play a central role as its levels are found to increase alongside MASLD to MASH progression. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(12−14)</a> It has also been found that ROS and TNF-α are closely interconnected, where elevated TNF-α levels could serve as an indicator of oxidative cellular damage and enhanced lipid peroxidation. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(15−17)</a> Often, one of the results of MASLD progression is the development of liver fibrosis, which is usually mediated by transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) as its levels are frequently elevated in MASH and contribute to the worsening of hepatic steatosis. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(18)</a> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c09978#fig1">Figure 1</a> summarizes the pathways associated with MASLD to MASH progression, with emphasis on lipid peroxidation (CDs, LOOHs) and inflammatory/fibrogenic signaling (TNF-α, TGF-β1).<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ACS_Omega_2026_11_23_33333_33344_Figure_1_Schematic_representation_of_lipid_peroxidation_and_its_role_in_MASLD_progression_e6a8e05d3e.jpeg" alt="ACS Omega 2026, 11, 23, 33333–33344: Figure 1. Schematic representation of lipid peroxidation and its role in MASLD progression. Lipid accumulation in MASLD leads to the release of free radicals and ROS, which attack (poly)unsaturated fatty acids within membrane lipids, leading to lipid peroxidation, inflammation (via TNF-α), and fibrotic changes (via TGF-β1), thereby contributing to the transition from MASLD to MASH and further progression to cirrhosis and HCC. In lipid peroxidation, reactive radicals (R·) subtract the hydrogen from the (poly)unsaturated lipid, thereby resulting in the formation of a lipid radical, which undergoes rearrangements to form a CD. The lipid radical then reacts with molecular oxygen to form an unstable lipid peroxyl radical, which further subtracts a hydrogen from another (poly)unsaturated lipid, thereby resulting in the formation of a LOOH. The subtraction of hydrogen from the (poly)unsaturated lipid also results in the formation of a lipid radical, thereby perpetuating the chain reaction. The figure was created with Servier Medical Art (https://smart.servier.com/) and MarvinSketch (ChemAxon, https://chemaxon.com/marvin)." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ACS_Omega_2026_11_23_33333_33344_Figure_1_Schematic_representation_of_lipid_peroxidation_and_its_role_in_MASLD_progression_e6a8e05d3e.jpeg 216w," sizes="100vw" width="1834" height="1327">However, the exact role of different lipid peroxidation indicators and their contribution to MASLD progression toward MASH have not yet been fully elucidated, with the number of studies addressing this issue remaining limited. Given these limitations in research, attention has increasingly turned toward dietary antioxidants, particularly polyphenols or mixtures of polyphenol-rich plant extracts, as potential modulators of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in hepatic steatosis. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(19−23)</a>Among available polyphenols, we selected (−)-epicatechin (EC) because of its strong antioxidant and radical scavenging capacity, with its documented effects on inflammatory signaling. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(24−26)</a> One study even found that the antifibrotic properties of EC were comparable to those of silymarin, with EC showing even stronger reducing effects on malondialdehyde (MDA) formation in vivo. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(27)</a> Since MDA is a secondary product of LOOH breakdown, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(28)</a> these results could link EC’s potential antifibrotic properties to its ability to attenuate lipid peroxidation, thereby potentially mitigating the progression of MASLD to MASH. Unlike more extensively studied compounds such as epigallocatechin gallate, <a href="javascript:void(0);">(29,30)</a> EC has been less investigated in the context of MASLD, providing an opportunity to explore a novel candidate. At the same time, the growing use of advanced spectroscopic techniques offers new opportunities to monitor biochemical alterations in cells and tissues.Attenuated total reflection-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy recently emerged as a promising tool for monitoring such changes. The application of ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and similar techniques for steatosis and lipid quantification, along with determining the lipid peroxidation extent, has been introduced, especially in the context of hepatic steatosis. Determining the intensity of C═O vibrational stretching at ∼1740 cm–1 (triacylglycerols, cholesteryl esters, lipid oxides), as this type of bond usually occurs in lipid peroxidation, could also be valuable for determining the overall extent of steatosis. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(31−33)</a> Along with lipid peroxidation extent, determining the degree of unsaturation in MASLD models is crucial for understanding the changes in cellular components as the degree of unsaturation is often found to decrease due to steatotic changes in cells and tissues. (Poly)unsaturated fatty acids contribute to membrane fluidity and are essential for maintaining membrane integrity and signaling, while their depletion leads to increased membrane rigidity and impaired cellular function. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(34,35)</a> Given their high susceptibility to peroxidation, a reduction in their levels could indicate either an adaptive response to oxidative stress or a disruption of lipid homeostasis. Therefore, correlating the degree of unsaturation (∼3010 cm–1 for ═C–H) and the intensity of carbonyl stretching (∼1740 cm–1 for C═O) with the LOOH/CD ratio and cytokines, TNF-α and TGF-β1, could be valuable for the noninvasive monitoring of disease progression.<h4>Methods</h4><h5>Experimental Design</h5>Two experimental models were introduced for the experiments: EC pretreatment and EC Posttreatment models. In both models, the untreated cells (UT) group was used as a negative (vehicle) control group, while the sodium oleate-treated group (OA) was used as a positive control group, with EC (control) being the highest concentration of EC used as a control for the tested compound. In the Pretreatment model, the cells were pretreated with 10, 30, and 50 μM EC for 4 h, followed by a 24 h posttreatment with 1.5 mM sodium oleate. In the Posttreatment model, the cells were treated with 1.5 mM sodium oleate for 12 h, followed by the addition of the same concentrations of EC in the presence of 0.75 mM sodium oleate. All of the experimental groups were labeled as EC50+OA, EC30+OA, and EC10+OA, according to the concentration used in the experiments. EC concentrations of 10, 30, and 50 μM were chosen based on our previous MTS assay and Oil Red O staining results, where we tested 10–100 μM EC to evaluate its effect on MASLD in the Pretreatment model. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(42)</a> As it was proven effective in the Pretreatment model, the Posttreatment model was added to evaluate whether EC could also mitigate oxidative and inflammatory/fibrotic changes once steatosis was already established. Another important consideration was to assess the potential cytotoxicity of the concentrations used, as EC and other polyphenols are often consumed as dietary supplements with poorly regulated dosages. As these cytotoxic effects are often subtle and overlooked in conventional biochemical assays, combining FTIR spectral analysis with complementary assays could provide a more comprehensive assessment of potential cytotoxicity.<h5>ATR-FTIR Assessment of Lipid Peroxidation</h5>ATR-FTIR spectroscopy was used to determine the extent of lipid peroxidation and steatosis. The lipid samples were dissolved in chloroform and normalized to a lipid concentration of 20 mg/mL. After the evaporation of the solvent, the ATR-FTIR spectra were recorded using an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=Cary+630">Agilent Cary 630 FTIR spectrophotometer</a> (Agilent Technologies, Santa Clara, CA, USA), at the Faculty of Biotechnology and Drug Development at the University of Rijeka. All ATR-FTIR spectra were processed using the automatic least-squares baseline correction algorithm implemented in <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=MicroLab+Expert">Agilent MicroLab Expert v.10.5 software</a> (4000–650 cm–1; clean scans: 4; threshold: 0.002; background scans: 2; sample scans: 100; resolution: 16 cm–1; apodization: HappGenzel; phase correct: Mertz; method gain: 221). Spectra of pure chloroform were recorded under identical conditions and subtracted from sample spectra to remove any residual solvent contributions. Chloroform was recorded to be excluded in the background, and the data were collected in the spectral range 3200–1600 cm–1 on an ATR device. To ensure comparability between samples, the spectra were normalized against the asymmetric CH2 stretching vibration of lipid acyl chains (2925–2922 cm–1), which was used as an internal reference band due to its relative stability across treatments and minimal alteration during lipid peroxidation. Baseline correction was applied prior to normalization to minimize background variability. Relative intensities of lipid peroxidation-associated bands (C═O stretching at 1744–1735 cm–1 and ═C–H stretching at 3010 cm–1) were then expressed as a ratio to the CH2 reference peak, allowing quantitative comparison of the lipid peroxidation extent between experimental groups. The data were presented as percent relative intensities (%Irel).<h4>Results and Discussion</h4><h5>ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy for the Assessment of Lipid Peroxidation and Steatosis Extent</h5>To evaluate the overall steatosis and lipid peroxidation extent in HepG2 cells, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy was used. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c09978#fig5">Figure 5</a> shows the 3200–1600 cm–1 spectral region, including the key C═O (1744–1735 cm–1) and ═C–H (3010 cm–1) stretching bands, which correlated with the biochemical parameters measured in this study. The increased intensity of the C═O band in sodium oleate-treated groups corresponds to the accumulation of oxidized lipid species derived from peroxidation of (poly)unsaturated fatty acids. On the other hand, a decrease in the ═C–H stretching band near 3010 cm–1 indicates a progressive depletion of double bonds which undergo rearrangement to form CDs or further transformations associated with lipid peroxidation.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ACS_Omega_2026_11_23_33333_33344_Figure_5_ATR_FTIR_spectra_of_control_groups_aabfabbdc1.jpeg" alt="ACS Omega 2026, 11, 23, 33333–33344: Figure 5. ATR-FTIR spectra of control groups: UT (blue) and EC (control) (purple); along with experimental groups: OA (yellow), EC50+OA (red), EC30+OA (orange), and EC10+OA (brown) in the wavenumber range 3200–1600 cm–1 for the (a) EC Pretreatment Model and (b) EC Posttreatment Model." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ACS_Omega_2026_11_23_33333_33344_Figure_5_ATR_FTIR_spectra_of_control_groups_aabfabbdc1.jpeg 193w," sizes="100vw" width="1572" height="1272">All experimental groups show similar FTIR profiles in the lipid regions; however, to determine the overall extent of lipid peroxidation and steatosis, the relative intensities of ═C–H stretching of unsaturated lipids (3010 cm–1) and C═O stretching of esters (1744–1735 cm–1) were measured according to the baseline and normalized according to asymmetric CH2 stretching of lipid chains (2925–2922 cm–1) (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.5c09978#fig6">Figure 6</a>). This approach was chosen as the greatest changes were noticed among the given intensities of the peaks in all groups.<img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/ACS_Omega_2026_11_23_33333_33344_Figure_6_Percent_relative_intensities_e921d53b57.jpeg" alt="ACS Omega 2026, 11, 23, 33333–33344: Figure 6. Percent relative intensities (%Irel) of ═C–H stretching (unsaturated lipids) and C═O stretching of esters for the (a) EC Pretreatment Model and (b) EC Posttreatment Model. The results are presented as mean values of %Irel ± SD." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_ACS_Omega_2026_11_23_33333_33344_Figure_6_Percent_relative_intensities_e921d53b57.jpeg 149w," sizes="100vw" width="1000" height="1044">Also, as indicated in the literature, the increase in intensities of C═O stretching and a decrease in intensities of ═C–H stretching are mostly associated with an increase in the lipid peroxidation extent. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(33,50)</a> Furthermore, a decrease in ═C–H stretching corresponds to a decrease in the (poly)unsaturated fatty acid content, which is often noted in MASLD/MASH models. <a href="javascript:void(0);">(51,52)</a><h4>Conclusion</h4>In a sodium oleate-induced hepatic steatosis model, EC showed a concentration-dependent effect on the overall radical scavenging ability of HepG2 cells. However, when EC was given as a posttreatment, these results were not achievable. EC also reduced propagation-phase lipid peroxidation by reducing relative LOOH levels in both models, lowering the LOOH/CD ratio (except for the EC50+OA pretreatment group), and effectively decreasing sodium oleate-induced increases in TNF-α and TGF-β1 concentrations. ATR-FTIR results were consistent with changes in lipid (per)oxidation and reflected the overall antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of EC observed through biochemical assays. Compared with biochemical assays, ATR-FTIR spectroscopy has several advantages, including rapid and nondestructive analysis that requires minimal sample preparation. Considering that it can simultaneously capture multiple molecular changes, this represents a reliable approach for accurate and complementary insights into lipid peroxidation and redox alterations in MASLD. However, it is important to correlate ATR-FTIR spectral changes with biochemical assays to further strengthen its interpretation.</div>

ATR-FTIR Assessment of the Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of (−)-Epicatechin in MASLD

In the week from July 6, the following webinars await you in the field of atomic and molecular spectroscopy and spectrometry<blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinars">👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</a></h4>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database with over 5 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars.</blockquote><h5>1. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Lunch and Learn Tips and Tricks Series: Trace Elemental Analysis (ICP-OES &amp; ICP-MS)</h5><ul><li>Tu, 7.7.2026 12:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/5977">Registration</a></li></ul>Learn practical tips to optimize ICP-OES and ICP-MS performance, improve data quality, streamline troubleshooting and maintenance, and enhance sample preparation for more efficient elemental analysis.<h5>2. SelectScience: Expanding the 4D-STEM Toolbox for Advanced Materials Characterization</h5><ul><li>Tu, 7.7.2026 15:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6318">Registration</a></li></ul>Explore how Timepix4 detector technology advances 4D-STEM workflows, enabling high-resolution imaging, data-driven acquisition, and new opportunities in electron microscopy.<h5>3. Anton Paar: Microwave Digestion: The Foundation of Accurate Trace Metal Analysis</h5><ul><li>We, 8.7.2026 09:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6321">Registration</a></li></ul>Build robust workflows for trace metal analysis. Learn how microwave digestion ensures fast, contamination-free, and complete sample preparation across complex food matrices.<h5>4. Wiley: From liquids to solids: expand what your UV-Vis-NIR Spectrometer can do</h5><ul><li>We, 8.7.2026 16:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6367">Registration</a></li></ul>Discover how the Agilent Cary UV-Vis-NIR spectrometer, together with Specac accessories, enables reliable analysis of liquids, powders, films, pellets, and highly scattering solid samples.<h5>5. SelectScience: The next generation ICP-MS designed to wow trace element analysts</h5><ul><li>We, 8.7.2026 16:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6320">Registration</a></li></ul>Upgrade your trace-element analysis. Discover how the new Agilent 9500 ICP-MS eliminates interferences and simplifies method development for complex matrices.<h5>6. LECO: Dry Matter and Ash Determination in Wastewater and Sewage Sludge</h5><ul><li>Th, 9.7.2026 16:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6324">Registration</a></li></ul>Optimize wastewater analysis. Learn how automated thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) replaces manual drying and ashing steps to determine dry matter and ash in sewage sludge.<h5>7. Waters Corporation: Cracking the Code on Nitrogen Methods</h5><ul><li>Th, 9.7.2026 17:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6327">Registration</a></li></ul>Learn the fundamentals of nitrogen analysis for wastewater testing. Explore analytical methods, QA/QC, sample handling, compliance reporting, and troubleshooting for accurate environmental monitoring.<h5>8. Agilent Technologies: ICP Expert 7.8: Booming ICP-OES Software Innovation</h5><ul><li>Th, 9.7.2026 20:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://icpms.labrulez.com/webinar/6368">Registration</a></li></ul>Discover what's new in ICP Expert™ 7.8 and how the latest software innovations can improve data quality, simplify routine operation, and increase day-to-day laboratory efficiency.

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Flipping the standard SPM tip-sample configuration
Reverse tip sample (RTS) scanning probe microscopy (SPM) was recently introduced by our guest speakers. RTS SPM overcomes the single-tip barrier of traditional SPM by flipping the conventional tip and sample positions, using a sample on a tipless cantilever and a vast tip array integrated into a nanofabricated probe chip.
Join us to hear about:
<ul>
<li>Nanofabrication of probe chips</li>
<li>Sample preparation</li>
<li>Measurements and applications</li>
</ul>
Guest Speaker Abstract
We recently introduced the Reverse Tip Sample Scanning Probe Microscopy (RTS SPM) concept to overcome the single-tip barrier of the traditional SPM approach. This fresh perspective essentially flips the conventional tip-sample positions, placing the sample on a tipless cantilever and the tip on the sample stage, which is now a part of a vast tip array integrated into a nanofabricated probe chip. The standout feature of this arrangement is the ability to change tips seamlessly. During operations in RTS configuration the sample, mounted on the tipless cantilever, scans one of the thousands of tips present on the probe chip. When a tip wears out, the operator can quickly switch to a new one by just repositioning the cantilever onto an adjacent fresh tip, which takes merely seconds to complete. As such, the RTS configuration greatly boosts the data collection efficiency in application spaces where there is a need for frequent tip replacements and opens the door for further developments of the SPM technology.
After a comprehensive introduction of the RTS SPM concept, we will cover some of the crucial aspects mainly focusing on:
<ul>
<li>Nanofabrication of probe chips: We’ll present a dry etching process for fabricating high-quality Si probe chips, which features a novel tip sharpening step. We also touch on the application of metal and diamond coatings on these Si probe chips.</li>
<li>Sample preparation: We’ll share the dependable workflows we developed for routinely preparing RTS SPM samples by focused ion beam (FIB) and FIB-less approaches. These time-efficient procedures yield RTS samples with excellent electrical contacts and mechanical stability.</li>
<li>Measurements and applications: We’ll explore the diverse applications of RTS SPM such as statistical multi-tip studies, RTS Scalpel SPM, electrical tomography and more.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Nemanja Peric, Ph.D. (SPM Researcher, imec, Belgium)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Nemanja Peric received his PhD degree from the University of Lille (France) while working at the Institut d’électronique de microélectronique et de nanotechnologie (IEMN/CNRS). After a short postdoctoral research period at IEMN, Nemanja joined imec in Leuven (Belgium) where he is currently working as an SPM researcher. His interests and expertise involve mainly AFM and STM.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Pieter Lagrain (Engineer, imec, Belgium)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Pieter Lagrain received a master degree in chemistry from KU Leuven (Belgium). He joined afterwards imec as an engineer for nanoelectronics device analysis. His interest and expertise mainly involve FIB, TEM and SPM.
</blockquote>

Bruker: Reverse Tip Sample (RTS) Scanning Probe Microscopy

Reverse Tip Sample (RTS) Scanning Probe Microscopy

Hear about nanofabrication of probe chips, sample preparation, measurements and applications.

<div><h4>Learn how to best use atomic force microscopy</h4>During this webinar, Bruker experts will give a general overview of best practices for sample preparation with atomic force microscopy (AFM), along with useful tips and tricks for achieving optimal results. They will also highlight a range of modes, accessories, and add-ons that significantly enhance the functionality of AFM beyond conventional imaging, without major upgrades.Extend your research capabilities with unique features:<ul><li>Environmental control options for temperature, humidity, pH, and CO2</li><li>CellWizard Stage for automated, multi-chamber measurements</li><li>New modes, e.g., SmartMapping for increased ease, speed, and accuracy</li><li>AI and machine learning capabilities for autonomous measurements</li></ul>Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a powerful tool, and a suite of advanced accessories makes it a highly versatile platform. Tailored configurations can address a diverse range of scientific applications and complex biological questions, from dynamic molecular mechanisms to protein folding events and cellular interactions.</div>

Bruker: Unlocking BioAFM Performance: From Sample Preparation to Advanced Accessories

Unlocking BioAFM Performance: From Sample Preparation to Advanced Accessories

Webinar on atomic force microscopy best practices, sample preparation, advanced modes, and AI-enabled AFM features for biological and materials research.

Unlocking BioAFM Performance

Explore Plant Cells and ProcessesDuring this webinar, Dr. Bovio, from the Plant Reproduction and Development Laboratory at ENS, will speak on using AFM to assess turgor pressure in plants at the single-cell level.Prof. Yakubov, from the School of Food Science and Nutrition, will discuss the BioFluidic Microscope (BFM), an integrated platform that combines confocal imaging with atomic force and nanofluidic functionality to explore biological and bioinspired systems in five dimensions. Join this webinar to hear more about:<ul><li>Advanced, innovative approaches for investigating plant biology</li><li>How BioAFM enables the non-destructive study of living plant cells under near-native conditions</li><li>Novel insights into plant physiology at the intersection of physics and biology</li></ul><h4>Webinar Summary</h4>Dr. Simoné Bovio, RDP laboratory and PLATIM-LyMIC imaging platform, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Lyon, France, will speak on the Measurement of Plant Cells Turgor Pressure by AFM Indentation:Plants cells can be imagined as balloons under pressure. Walled cells, as in plants, fungi or bacteria, can sustain a hydrostatic overpressure (turgor pressure) due to the osmotic pressure difference between the inside and outside of the cell. Turgor pressure (up to several MPa in plants) is the driving force of cell growth and participates in the overall mechanical stability of the plant. The interplay between turgor pressure and cell wall properties tailors cell growth (in rate and direction) and finally the overall morphogenesis (the generation of form) of a plant. Several approaches can be used to measure the turgor pressure (pressure chamber, psychrometry, pressure probe, etc.) that allow either an organ level or cell-level, but destructive, measurement. Furthermore, none of those techniques are adapted to small cells (below few tens of microns in radius). In this webinar, I will discuss the use of AFM indentation measurements to assess turgor pressure on a single cell level. I will present the different strategies developed in our lab and by other groups as well, highlighting their advantages and limitations. I will then show the results of an ongoing investigation on Physcomitrium patens phyllids. Prof. Gleb E. Yakubov, School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, United Kingdom, will present Biofluidic Microscope: An Integrated Atomic and Fluidic Force – High-Resolution Confocal Microscopy Imaging Platform:The BioFluidic Microscope (BFM) is a new, integrated imaging platform that combines ultra-fast confocal imaging with atomic force and nanofluidic functionality. The BFM enables the characterisation of localised biochemical and physiological processes across three dimensions of space, as well as time and force, thus offering a step-change capability for exploring biological and bioinspired systems in five dimensions: 3D space, time, and force (5D microscopy). The BFM unlocks new avenues for applications in soft matter, biomechanics, biomaterials, biofilm research, and the food and plant sciences. Its unique design allows it to accommodate a wide range of complex biological samples, enabling quantitative and predictive characterisation of single molecules, single cells, and tissues, as well as whole organisms or their larger fragments. The BFM’s applications span several domains, delivering benefits across a broad range of research areas, including biofilm dynamics, plant development, and cell physiology.This talk will discuss the implementation of the BFM and illustrate its capabilities using two case studies: (a) nanomechanical mapping of A. thaliana roots and (b) interfacial interactions in plant-derived food materials. This will be followed by a discussion of approaches for the analysis of nanomechanical data in complex systems.<blockquote>Speaker: Dr. Simoné Bovio (RDP laboratory and PLATIM-LyMIC imaging platform, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Lyon, France)Dr. Simoné Bovio works as a microscopy engineer in the RDP laboratory and at the PLATIM-LyMIC imaging platform at the Ecole Normale Supérieure in Lyon, France. He obtained his master’s degree in physics at the University of Milan where he also earned his PhD at the CIMaINa lab under the supervision of Dr. Alessandro Podestà in 2012. After spending the rest of 2012 in the Amazon rain forest in Ecuador with an Italian NGO, in 2013 he joined the team of Frank Lafont, the CMPI, in Lille, France, where he made his first steps in biology through the study of the mechanical behavior of animal and human cells using AFM nano-indentation. He has had a permanent position at the ENS in Lyon since 2017, where he started developing his expertise in indentation measurements on living plant samples and where his interest for the measurement of turgor pressure developed and grew. &nbsp;</blockquote><blockquote>Speaker: Prof. Gleb Yakubov (School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, United Kingdom) Professor Gleb Yakubov holds the Chair in Food Biopolymers at the University of Leeds. He completed his PhD in Physical Chemistry at the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, specialising in biopolymer systems and colloidal probe AFM force spectroscopy. Prior to joining Leeds, he held academic positions at the University of Nottingham and The University of Queensland, following nearly a decade in industrial R&amp;D within the global consumer goods sector.Professor Yakubov’s research sits at the interface of colloid science, soft matter physics, polymer science, and biophysics. His work focuses on understanding how biopolymer structure and interactions govern the functionality of biopolymer systems, such as foods, plant cell walls, biomaterials, and biopolymer gels. His expertise includes colloidal probe AFM force spectroscopy, rheology, and complex carbohydrate analysis. He leads the Food Biopolymer Research Laboratory, where interdisciplinary approaches are used to investigate the structuring and mechanics of complex biological and food materials. Among the laboratory’s recent innovations is the BioFluidic Microscope (BFM), an integrated platform combining ultra-fast confocal imaging with atomic force microscopy and nanofluidic functionality, enabling high-resolution exploration of localised biochemical and physiological processes in biological and bioinspired systems.Professor Yakubov has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed papers and book chapters, holds several patents, and has contributed widely to advances in food biophysics, biomaterials, and sustainable food technologies. His work has influenced contemporary understanding of polysaccharide functionality, lubrication phenomena, plant-based materials, and the development of healthier and more sustainable foods.&nbsp;</blockquote>

Bruker: Unlocking Plant Biology with Advanced AFM

Unlocking Plant Biology with Advanced AFM

Unlock plant cell mechanics with advanced Bruker AFM. Explore high-resolution, automated nanomechanical mapping of living cell walls and plant tissues

ICPMS webinars focusing on Sample prep - page 1