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

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Reference standards are essential in chromatography to ensure the correct identification of the sample components and the accuracy of quantitation.
In this one-hour presentation, we will explore the definitions and certifications that can impact selection and use of reference standards. Additionally, we’ll review the techniques and documentation required to prepare reproducible and reliable reference standards.
<ul>
<li>Learn what certified reference materials (CRMs) are and why you need them.</li>
<li>Explore the quality controls needed to consistently ensure accurate reference standards.</li>
<li>Understand secondary source standards and how to obtain them.</li>
</ul>

Restek: Building a Rock-Solid Analytical Foundation with Certified Reference Materials (CRMs)

Building a Rock-Solid Analytical Foundation with Certified Reference Materials (CRMs)

Agilent offers a comprehensive inorganic standard portfolio which includes single and multi-elements certified reference materials.
We have enhanced our website to improve the searchability of instrument and application based elemental analysis standards. Agilent now also offers custom standards for your method specific needs.
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Presenter: Fred Chan (Chemical Standards Product Manager - CSD, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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<blockquote>
Frederick Chan is a Chemical Standards Product Manager for Agilent’s Consumables and Supplies Division. He has a chemical engineering degree from University of California, Los Angeles and a MBA from University of Denver. Currently resides in Denver, CO and has been with Agilent for 14 years – in both the consumables and services divisions.
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<blockquote>
Presenter: Mitesh Patel (Chemical Standards Product Manager - CSD, Agilent Technologies, Inc.)
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Mitesh Patel is a Product Manager for Chemical Standards for Consumable and Supplies Division (CSD) at Agilent. Mitesh has 13 years of experience in Chemistry and Material Science field. He has Ph.D. in Chemistry from University of Illinois, Chicago and MBA in Global Management from University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.
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Agilent Technologies: Agilent Inorganic Standard Portfolio and Website Tools: Part 2 - ICP-OES/MP-AES/AA

Agilent Inorganic Standard Portfolio and Website Tools: Part 2 - ICP-OES/MP-AES/AA

Comprehensive inorganic standard portfolio which includes single and multi-elements certified reference materials.

Agilent Inorganic Standard Portfolio ICP-OES/MP-AES/AA

Agilent Technologies: Agilent Inorganic Standard Portfolio and Website Tools: Part 1 - ICP-MS

Agilent Inorganic Standard Portfolio and Website Tools: Part 1 - ICP-MS

Agilent Inorganic Standard Portfolio and Website - ICP-MS

<h3>Building a strong foundation for your analytical workflow</h3>
Your results are only as accurate as your reference. Within Pharma QC, whether you are performing dissolution testing or releasing finished goods, having accurate, reliable and fully characterized Reference Materials is critical. This webinar will provide viewers with an overview of key concepts relating to Reference Materials.
With a multitude of suppliers serving the industry – both compendial and commercial – there are myriad choices of Reference Materials available for a quality control laboratory. We will discuss how different quality grades are “fit for purpose,” best practices in Reference Material production, and what to look for in a Reference Material Certificate of Analysis.
We will also discuss a novel concept: fully characterized Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) qualified against compendial standards. These CRMs are designed to replace a laboratories in-house working standards and pair with a laboratory’s primary Reference Standards to form a strong, well-characterized and fully traceable Reference Material foundation.
<h3>Key Learning Objectives</h3>
<ul>
<li>Understand how different Reference Material quality grades are fit-to-purpose</li>
<li>Provide key concepts in Reference Material manufacture and characterization</li>
<li>Detail Certificate of Analysis (CoA) key attributes that will be common across sources</li>
</ul>
<h3>Audience</h3>
<ul>
<li>Laboratory Directors</li>
<li>Pharmaceutical Quality Control (QC) Managers</li>
<li>Pharmaceutical Quality Control (QC) technicians</li>
</ul>
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Presenter: Michael Hurst (Product Manager - Reference Materials)
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Pixabay/Mizianitka: Reference Materials in Pharma QC

MilliporeSigma - Reference Materials in Pharma QC

<h4>Eight Webinars and a Roundtable with Experts from Merck&nbsp;</h4>Analytical Excellence Week' is organized to empower professionals in the field of analytical chemistry. Over the course of eight insightful sessions, industry experts will share their knowledge and best practices to streamline your analytical workflows and enhance your efficiency.From understanding quality grades in inorganics and solvents to exploring sustainable practices in the lab, each webinar covers essential topics that will enhance your analytical capabilities. Learn how to optimize your Karl Fischer titration, achieve precision in PFAS testing, and gain troubleshooting tips for LC-MS to effectively address common challenges and improve your laboratory results. The sessions will also address critical aspects of safety and sustainability, ensuring you are well-equipped to handle hazardous chemicals responsibly while making strides toward greener laboratory practices.This is an invaluable opportunity to gain insights that can significantly optimize your analytical processes. Don’t miss your chance to elevate your expertise and contribute to a more efficient and sustainable future in analytical workflows. Each session is specifically designed to address essential topics that directly impact your daily practices, making it relevant for all professionals working in a chemical analysis laboratory.<h3>Day 2: Tuesday, 11 February</h3><h4>Dihydropinene, γ-Valerolactone, and Dimethyl Isosorbide: Bio-Sourced Versatile Green Solvents for Diverse Organic Synthesis</h4>The growing environmental concerns and regulatory restrictions on conventional organic solvents derived from non-renewable sources have spurred the search for greener, sustainable alternatives. This presentation will explore the potential of dihydropinene (DHP), γ-valerolactone (GVL), and dimethyl isosorbide (DMI) as bio-sourced and biodegradable solvents, offering a promising solution to replace toxic and non-renewable solvents. DHP, derived from turpentine oil, is an effective substitute for solvents such as n-hexane, benzene, and dichloromethane, while GVL and DMI are ideal replacements for hazardous solvents such as DMF, NMP, and DMA.These solvents not only perform well in various chemical transformations but also offer significant environmental benefits due to their biodegradability, low toxicity, and recyclability. The presentation will highlight the applications of DHP, GVL, and DMI in green chemistry, showcasing their potential in organic synthesis and industrial processes. It will also discuss their role in advancing sustainable practices, reducing dependency on fossil-based solvents, and promoting safer working environments. By focusing on green solvent solutions, the presentation will emphasize their future potential in scientific research, production, and industrial applications.By attending this webinar, you will learn:<ul><li>Sustainable Solvent Alternatives: How bio-based solvents such as DHP, GVL, and DMI can replace conventional toxic solvents, providing eco-friendly, biodegradable options for chemical processes.</li><li>Environmental and Safety Benefits: The environmental advantages of these solvents, including biodegradability, low toxicity, and recyclability, and how they promote safer and greener practices in research and industry.</li><li>Practical Applications: How these solvents can be effectively used in organic synthesis, industrial processes, and various scientific fields, contributing to more sustainable and efficient chemical solutions.</li></ul>Who should attend: This presentation will benefit those working in pharmaceutical and drug discovery R&amp;D, process development of API, environmental scientists and sustainability experts, industry professionals in chemical engineering and manufacturing, materials science researchers, and students and researchers in green chemistry.<blockquote>Presenter: Saikat Sinha, (R&amp;D Manager, Merck)&nbsp;</blockquote><h4>Enhance Your PFAS Testing: Achieve Precision and Reduce Background Noise with Specialized Consumables</h4>Join this presentation to explore advanced LC-MS/MS methods for determining PFAS analytes at low levels across diverse samples and matrices. Learn how to identify contamination sources, reduce background noise, and improve testing precision with specific recommendations on PFAS-qualified consumables. Discover various LC-MS/MS PFAS testing workflows and strategies to minimize errors, supported by data from both regulated and non-regulated methods.By attending this webinar, you will learn:<ul><li>Detailed insights into different LC-MS/MS PFAS methods</li><li>Techniques to identify and test contamination sources</li><li>Strategies to reduce background noise</li><li>Practical tips and tricks for improved testing</li></ul>Who should attend: This webinar is essential for lab technicians, lab managers, and quality assurance managers involved in developing in-house methods or verifying regulated testing protocols such as EPA Methods 533, 537.1, and 1633.<blockquote>Presenter: Patrik Appelblad, (Fellow and Technical Lead, Analytical Chemistry R&amp;D, Merck)&nbsp;</blockquote>

Merck: Webinar Series & Expert Roundtable

Webinar Series & Expert Roundtable (Day 2)

(Day 2) - Part 1: Dihydropinene, γ-Valerolactone, and Dimethyl Isosorbide: Solvents for Organic Synthesis and Part 2: Enhance Your PFAS Testing

ICPMS webinars focusing on Chemicals & Standards - page 1