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

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

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

Webinars LabRulezICPMS Week 07/2026

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

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

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

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

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C&EN

IR and Raman spectroscopy are well established, mature techniques present nowadays in most analytical laboratories.  However, they do pose several key fundamental limitations. The new breakthrough technique of Sub-micron Optical Photothermal Infrared (O-PTIR) Spectroscopy overcomes the limited spatial resolution of traditional IR microscopy with submicron resolution and the limited sensitivity and fluorescence interference limitations of Raman microscopy. 
Furthermore, O-PTIR is able to bring together the complementarity of IR and Raman into a single platform, single measurement for the first time, enables sub-micron, simultaneous IR+Raman microscopy delivering IR and Raman spectra from the same spot, at the same time with the same spatial resolution. 
This webinar discusses this novel technique and provides numerous application examples.
<h4>Part 1: Introduction &amp; Overview by Dr. Mustafa Kansiz</h4>
<ul>
<li>Overview of current direct IR (FTIR &amp; QCL) and Raman micro spectroscopic techniques and Fluorescence Microscopy </li>
<li>Introduction to Submicron O-PTIR and simultaneous Raman microscopy (IR+Raman) and the benefits of co-located Fluorescence </li>
<li>Various application examples of particulates, materials science and more</li>
</ul>
<h4>Part 2: Review of Environmental Applications by Dr. Andrew Ault Microplastics, environmental</h4>
Dr. Ault will present the results of his group&#39;s recent publication on an important source of atmospheric particles - Sea Spray Aerosols (SSA).  
In this work, they characterize individual SSA particles using new generation submicron simultaneous IR+Raman (O-PTIR) microscopy for organic profiling, combined with EDX for elemental profiling. 
Dr. Ault will also talk to his recent research relating to microplastics.  
<h5>Key Learning Objectives:</h5>
<ul>
<li>Understand the principle of operation of O-PTIR for submicron IR spectroscopy</li>
<li>Learn about specific applications of submicron simultaneous IR and Raman</li>
<li>How O-PTIR can advance your research goals and increase the impact of your publications</li>
</ul>
<h5>Who Should Attend:</h5>
<ul>
<li>Laboratory Directors and Managers  </li>
<li>Research Professors and Academics</li>
<li>Regional Water Board Researchers</li>
<li>Industrial Failure Analysis Engineers</li>
<li>Chemical and Polymer Engineers and Scientists</li>
<li>Vibrational Spectroscopists</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Mustafa Kansiz (Director of Product Management and Marketing, Photothermal Spectroscopy Corp.)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Dr. Andrew Ault (Dow Corning Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Associate Professor of Chemistry, University of Michigan)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Melissa O&#39;Meara (Forensic Science Consultant, C&amp;EN Media Group)
</blockquote>

C&EN: Sub-500nm Simultaneous IR+Raman Microscopy for Microplastics and Materials Science Research

Sub-500nm Simultaneous IR+Raman Microscopy for Microplastics and Materials Science Research

This webinar discusses this novel technique and provides numerous application examples.

Sub-500nm Simultaneous IR+Raman Microscopy for Microplastics

Optical microscopy is very common technique for visualization and characterization at the micron scale. Many modalities exist to highlight different features. However, the chemical information is almost always missing. Raman spectroscopy is a complementary technique that can provide chemical information about the sample.
During this webinar, we will present how these different microscopy modalities, combined with Raman spectroscopy, make Raman microscopy so powerful.

HORIBA Scientific: What makes Raman microscopy the ideal coupling method between optical microscopy and chemical characterization?

What makes Raman microscopy the ideal coupling method between optical microscopy and chemical characterization?

We will present how these different microscopy modalities, combined with Raman spectroscopy, make Raman microscopy so powerful.

Raman microscopy: optical microscopy & characterization?

Hydrogen is one of the most promising energy carriers that can enable a low-carbon economy.
In this webinar, Maria Lyubimova, Hydrogen business development manager, HORIBA France, will discuss solutions for the full development and manufacturing lifecycle that are enabling a global adoption of hydrogen technologies.
Gain insight into how HORIBA is providing innovative development tools to help accelerate the adoption of hydrogen technologies. These tools allow engineers, researchers, and scientists to address tomorrow’s challenges and to improve performance, quality, and cost. Furthermore, explore HORIBA’s large panel of techniques such as Raman, fluorescence, glow discharge, particle size, ICP, AFM, ellipsometry, C/S and O/N/H analyzers, and impedance spectroscopy.
Key learning objectives
<ul>
<li>Learn more about the qualification of raw materials
</li>
<li>Understand cell and stack components research and development
</li>
<li>Learn more about the validation of processed materials
</li>
</ul>
Who should attend?
<ul>
<li>Scientists and engineers conducting R&amp;D on cells and components like bi-polar plates, gas diffusion layers, and membrane electrode assemblies for electrolysis.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Maria Lyubimova (Hydrogen business development manager, HORIBA France)
</blockquote>

SelectScience: Testing and measurement solutions for hydrogen technologies

Testing and measurement solutions for hydrogen technologies

Solutions for the full development and manufacturing lifecycle that are enabling a global adoption of hydrogen technologies.

Raman microscopy is a powerful analytical technique for studying the chemistry and structure of materials. You can use Raman spectroscopy to understand most materials, but how do you do this
<h4>Register for a time that suits you:</h4>
<ul>
<li>Tuesday 16th April: 8.00am Chicago (CST) | 2.00pm London (BST) | 9.00pm Beijing (CST)</li>
<li>Thursday 18th April: 7.00am London (BST) | 8.00am Berlin (CEST) | 2.00pm Beijing (CST)</li>
<li>Wednesday 17th April: 1.00pm Chicago (CST) | 7.00pm London (BST) | 8.00pm Berlin (CEST)</li>
</ul>
In this webinar, you will learn how to collect high-quality Raman data. We will discuss different measurement settings and how to optimize them for your samples. Get started quickly with Raman spectroscopy and achieve your experimental aims.
Our scientists will guide you step-by-step through:
<ul>
<li>Sample preparation: Whether solid, liquid or gas, we will discuss how to prepare your sample for Raman microscopy.
</li>
<li>Choosing the right laser wavelength: We explain how the excitation laser wavelength can affect the intensity, resolution and fluorescent background when collecting Raman spectra.
</li>
<li>Choosing the right objective lens: From numerical aperture (N.A.) to working distances, we help you to choose the right lens for your experiment.
</li>
<li>Analysing the right sample areas: Use video montaging and LiveTrackTM focus-tracking technology to view features of interest in your sample.
</li>
<li>Optimising data quality: We give you tips on getting the best signal-to-noise ratio in your spectra while collecting data quickly.
</li>
<li>Data processing: From cosmic rays to fluorescent baselines, we have tools to remove artefacts from your spectra.
</li>
<li>Extracting results with data analysis: See how WiRETM software gets you accurate and validated results. Whether you are analysing pure materials or complex mixtures, we will show you how Spectrum Search and multivariate analysis can get you results quickly.
</li>
</ul>
Please note: The webinar will be recorded and available on-demand after. By registering, you will receive an email notifying you of the on-demand webinar when it is available.
<blockquote>
Presenter: Tim Smith (Raman Applications Manager)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Tim has over 20 years&#39; experience using a range of Raman research instruments. He has extensive knowledge and real-world use of systems in most application areas, however his particular expertise is within Raman imaging and pharmaceutical applications.
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Presenter: Sarah Shidler (Applications Scientist)
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Sarah has a PhD in physics. She used Raman spectroscopy to probe surface changes to oxide materials exposed to ionizing radiation. As an applications scientist she focuses on applying Raman spectroscopy to a variety of projects and application areas.
</blockquote>

Renishaw: How to optimise your Raman analysis

How to optimise your Raman analysis

Learn how to collect high-quality Raman data. We will discuss different measurement settings and how to optimize them for your samples.

By combining infrared spectroscopy with atomic force microscopy (AFM-IR), it is possible to perform chemical analysis and compositional mapping with a spatial resolution down to 10 nm, which greatly surpasses standard optical diffraction limits. During this 2-hour event, our speakers explore:<ul><li>Origins of the AFM-IR technique</li><li>Recent advances in AFM-IR technology</li><li>Applications that can benefit from AFM-IR spectroscopy—especially life sciences and environmental chemistry</li></ul>Bruker Application Scientist Dr. Cassandra Phillips hosts the workshop and live demos, providing an overview of Bruker's latest nanoIR product updates.&nbsp;Watch this webinar to:<ul><li>Hear distinguished guest speakers discuss their work on AFM-IR with the nano-IR platform</li><li>Experience Bruker's new patented Surface Sensitive mode</li><li>Become familiar with Bruker's new AFM-IR platforms</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Xiaoji Xu, Ph.D.Presentation: NanoIR through PeakForce Infrared (PFIR) MicroscopyHere, Xiaoji Xu, Ph.D. (Lehigh University) introduces the novel PFIR method of AFM-IR developed at Lehigh University. This method of label-free chemical nanoscopy is based on the mechanical detection of photothermal response by AFM operated in PeakForce Tapping mode and ultimately can achieve a higher spatial resolution (sub-10 nm) and provide more rich chemical information than many of the existing tools we use for chemical imaging—or imaging in general—while also providing greater flexibility in applicability to samples in both air and liquid.In addition to providing a review of the strengths and benefits of PFIR as they relate to foundational AFM-IR and PeakForce Tapping principles and capabilities, the presentater explores and provides detailed, real-world examples of PFIR's applicability to a broad range of sample types and experimental settings.Presenter: Dmitry Kurouski, Ph.D.Presentation: Biology at the Nanoscale: From Viruses to AmyloidsIn this presentation, Dmitry Kurouski, Ph.D. (Texas A&amp;M University) showcases his team's research and findings using TERS and AFM-IR to investigate viruses, viral particles, and alpha-synuclein oligomers. Topics of this discussion range from an exploration of how IR/AFMIR spectroscopy reveals a variety of infrared spectra in biological samples that are otherwise inaccessible by traditional Raman microscopy methods, to a detailed presentation of the team's findings via a combination of AFM-IR and TERS about changes observed in the secondary structural organization and surface structure information of populations of oligomers relative to their impact on the development of Parkinson's disease.These two technologies possess different capabilities that demonstrate strong complementarity in terms of both the chemical information available and the achievable probing depth.Presenter: Cassandra Philips, Ph.D.Presentation: Quantitative Demonstration of Surface Sensitivity with nanoIR3The presenter conducts a profile analysis of a PMMA wedge sample in both Resonance enhanced and Surface Sensitivity modes, then demonstrate the analytical process for data collected in Surface Sensitivity mode.Comparison of the data outputs of various operational modes demonstrates that using the same probe and sample, users can switch from looking at bulk measurements (where the signal increases linearly with the thickness) to measurements with a surface sensitivity on the order of 15 nm just by adjusting the parameters.Surface Sensitivity mode enables measurement of the top layer of a sample with significantly improved accuracy over other operational modes, as it collects data only from the surface and not from the absorbing material beneath it.&nbsp;Presentation: Demonstration: New Platforms for AFM-IRThe presenter introduces the unique capabilities of a new Bruker platform for AFM-IR imaging.Looking at a sample of PMMA beads in epoxy resin, the presenter demonstrates the new platform's capability to achieve higher acuity and operate at higher scan speeds than other nanoIR systems. Its integration with both Bruker's most advanced AFM controller and legacy Tapping Mode imaging capabilities are explored.Additionally, the presenter showcases the ability to switch wavenumber and reconfigure laser power mid-scan (to look at both the epoxy band and the carbonyl band of the sample), as well as the platform's unique capacity to switch between sample-scanning and tip-scanning configurations, enabling investigation of the chemical composition and mechanical properties of the same sample using the same probe.</blockquote>

Bruker: NanoIR Spectroscopy & Imaging: Recent Developments and Applications

NanoIR Spectroscopy & Imaging: Recent Developments and Applications

Find out more about Bruker's latest nano IR product updates and see real-time demonstrations of the new Surface Sensitive mode and new AFM-IR platforms

NanoIR Spectroscopy & Imaging - Developments & Applications

Vibrational microscopy is an established technique for materials identification and characterization which finds extensive applications in various fields including but not limited to pharmaceuticals, polymers, forensics, cultural heritage, life science, mineralogy, materials science and more.<blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Sergey Shilov (North America Product Manager, Science Business Unit, Bruker Optics)Dr. Sergey V. Shilov is a Product Manager for North America at Bruker Optics. Sergey joined Bruker in 2001. He is responsible for the support and development of new applications for the Bruker research FTIR systems. He received his Ph.D. in 1992 from the Russian Academy of Sciences in Polymer Physics and his M.S. from St. Petersburg State University (Russia) in Physics in 1986. Alexander Von Humboldt Foundation (Germany) awarded him a research fellowship in 1996. Sergey published 37 papers in peer-reviewed journals. His research interests include time-resolved FTIR spectroscopy, surface science, polymer, and life-science applications.&nbsp;</blockquote>

Bruker: State-of-the-Art Microanalysis Using Infrared and Raman Microscopy

State-of-the-Art Microanalysis Using Infrared and Raman Microscopy

In this webinar, participants will learn about the state-of-the art microanalysis using IR and Raman Microscopy.

State-of-the-Art Microanalysis Using IR and Raman Microscopy

The achievable spatial resolution in Raman microscopy is ultimately limited by physical laws (diffraction of light). We revisit the physical principles and try to reach the limits of Bruker’s Raman microscope.<blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Marten SeebaDr. Marten Seeba graduated in chemistry from the University of Göttingen before joining Bruker as an application expert for FT-IR and IR laser microscopy. He is a point of contact for our customers and as such has gained a great deal of expertise in many applications such as microplastics, pharmaceuticals, tissue analysis and materials science.</blockquote>

Bruker: Raman Microscopy – Spatial Resolution and Light Diffraction – SENTERRA II

Raman Microscopy – Spatial Resolution and Light Diffraction – SENTERRA II

In this webinar, we revisit the physical principles of Raman Microscopy and try to reach the limits of Bruker’s Raman microscope.

Raman Microscopy – SENTERRA II

During this webinar, we will review the unique features of Bruker’s Senterra II Raman microscope which offers research-grade spectroscopic performance with an intuitive analytical workflow. Also, selected applications of Raman microscopy on different pharmaceutical products will be shared. In conclusion, our Applications Scientist will help address any of your practical questions.Who Should Attend?<ul><li>Scientists/Engineers from pharmaceutical industry or similar fields who are looking for solutions to R&amp;D, forensic analysis and QA, QC problems.</li></ul>

Bruker: Applications of Raman Microscopy in Pharmaceutical Analysis

Applications of Raman Microscopy in Pharmaceutical Analysis

During this webinar, we will review unique features of Bruker’s Senterra II Raman microscope

LUMOS II ushers in a new era in FT-IR Microscopy.<blockquote>Presenter: &nbsp;Dr. Tom Tague (Applications Manager and Chair of the Safety Committee Bruker Corporation)<div>Dr. Tom Tague is the Applications Manager (FTIR and Raman products) and Chair of the Safety Committee for Bruker Corporation. He is also a member of the Visiting Advisory Committee of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Advisory Board of Amplified Sciences. Dr. Tague received his Ph.D. from the University of Utah in Physical Chemistry and his B.S. in Chemistry, from the University of Texas at San Antonio. He conducted his postdoctoral research at the University of Virginia working with professor Lester Andrews. He is a member of the American Chemical Society, the Society for Applied Spectroscopy, the American Physical Society, and the Optical Society of America. Dr. Tague is active in developing new methods and instrumentation with the goal of improving the sensitivity and detection limits of spectroscopy related applications. Dr. Tague has more than 80 publications and 5 patents.</div></blockquote>

Bruker: The State-of-the-Art in Infrared Microscopy

The State-of-the-Art in Infrared Microscopy

LUMOS II ushers in a new era in FT-IR Microscopy.

Developing next‑generation energy storage systems demands a deeper, more precise understanding of electrochemical behavior, including how to optimize electrode composition and ensure chemical homogeneity throughout the electrode structure. Combining electrochemistry with Infrared and Raman spectroscopy offers a powerful approach for achieving these goals. Pairing these techniques with microscopy further enables micrometer-scale insights into chemical composition and distribution.This 20-minute TechTalk will explore how these capabilities come together with four key instruments that make this integrated approach possible: INVENIO, RAMANtouch, HYPERION II and VERTEX NEO R.Join Dr. Sergey Shilov, Senior Application Scientist, Bruker Optics, as he shares his 40+ years of FTIR and Raman knowledge to inspire and accelerate your research in batteries, fuel cells, and advanced energy materials.<h4>Key learning objectives:</h4><ul><li>Understand spectroelectrochemical tools and workflows for probing reactions at electrodes and within electrolytes.</li><li>Learn how to optimize instrument setup and integration, including effective communication between potentiostats and spectrometers.</li><li>Understand how to apply fast chemical imaging techniques to visualize electrode surfaces and reaction dynamics.</li><li>Explore real‑world electrochemical case studies such as metal–organic complex oxidation, polymer distribution mapping, electrode degradation analysis, and SEI characterization in lithium metal batteries.</li></ul><h4>Who should attend?</h4><ul><li>Chemists, battery engineers, and scientists who are developing new materials for energy storage.</li></ul><h4>Certificate of attendance</h4><ul><li>If you attend the live TechTalk, you will automatically receive a certificate of attendance, including a learning outcomes summary, for continuing education purposes.</li><li>If you view the on-demand TechTalk, you can request a certificate of attendance by emailing editor@selectscience.net.</li></ul><blockquote>Presenter: Dr. Sergey Shilov (Senior Application Scientist, Bruker Optics)Dr. Sergey V. Shilov is a Senior Application Scientist and &nbsp;Product Manager for North America at Bruker Optics. Dr. Shilov is responsible for the support and development of new applications for the Bruker research FTIR systems. He received his Ph.D. in 1992 from the Russian Academy of Sciences in Polymer Physics. He has published 37 papers in peer-reviewed journals and his research interests include time-resolved FTIR spectroscopy, surface science, polymer, and life science applications.&nbsp;</blockquote>

SelectScience: Advancing energy storage with spectroelectrochemistry

Advancing energy storage with spectroelectrochemistry

How electrochemistry, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, and microscopy enable advanced chemical insight into electrodes for next-generation energy storage systems.

ICPMS webinars focusing on Microscopy - page 1