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Five Ways to Battle Information Complexity in Life Sciences Page 7
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May/June 2018 Volume 22, Number 2
The role of Mass Spectrometry in the evolving Cannabis Sector Page 13
R&D News.................. 1 Appointments............. 6 New Products........... 16 App Reviews.............. 18
Laurier researcher receives prestigious Early Researcher Award Diane Gregory. Photo: Nick Lachance
Wilfrid Laurier University associate professor Diane Gregory is the recipient of the prestigious Early Researcher Award from Ontario’s Ministry of Research and Innovation. “Diane’s innovative approach to solving problems that affect the lives of millions of Canadians is being recognized by the province of Ontario,” says Rob Gordon, vice-president: Research. “This funding will significantly contribute to growing Diane’s research efforts in innovative ways, and supporting her commitment to student-engaged research.” Gregory, who studies spine biomechanics and is an expert on low-back pain, injury and prevention – especially in the workplace, joined Laurier’s Department of Kinesiology in 2011. This research project, which received nearly $200,000 from the province, will examine two modes of how the spine can become injured or how it responds to injury. “One side will focus on the mechanical components of the spine, looking at how it twists or bends
and how it becomes injured,” says Gregory. “The other side takes a more novel approach, assessing the physiological reaction to spine injury. We’re looking at how inflammation effects the quality of the spine and if it makes people more susceptible to further injury.” Previous research has looked at the healing experience weeks after inflammation, but not during inflammation. Gregory runs two labs for students: a lab focused on tissue mechanics and a more applied lab. Established in 2005, the Early Researcher Awards program helps to attract and retain top talent in the province and help promising researchers build their teams. Since 2013, Ontario has committed investments of more than $621 million towards 1,092 research projects through the Ontario Research Fund and Early Researcher Awards programs. To see this story online visit https://laboratoryfocus.ca/laurierresearcher-award/
Mitigating mercury: Is your seafood toxic?
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At one point or another, most people have been told to be wary of how much tuna they consume due to excessive mercury content, but is there any truth in that? A study coming out of the University of Montreal’s Department of Biological Sciences decided to go fishing for the truth. The study combined data on the amount of mercury fished out of oceans and seas from 1950 to 2014 and the weekly consumption rate
of fish and seafood by the populations of 175 countries between 1971 and 2011. The findings left researchers more concerned than previously thought. With a vast quantity of populations around the world relying on food from the sea as their primary source of protein – 3 billion according to WWF – excessively high levels of methylmercury is particularly unsettling. Continued on page 3
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May/June 2018 Laboratory Focus www.laboratoryfocus.ca
news Knight Therapeutics brings Probuphine to Canada for opioid dependence Knight Therapeutics Inc., a leading Canadian specialty pharmaceutical company, announces that Health Canada has approved Probuphine
(buprenorphine subdermal implant) for the management of opioid dependence in patients clinically stabilized on no more than 8 mg of
sublingual buprenorphine in combination with counseling and psychosocial support. Knight signed an exclusive distribution and sublicense
agreement with Braeburn granting Knight the exclusive right to distribute Probuphine in Canada. “We are thrilled that Probuphine has received approval by Health Canada,” says Mike Derkacz, president and CEO of Braeburn. “We look forward Continued on page 3
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news Mitigating mercury Continued from page 1 Postdoctoral fellow, Raphaël Lavoie, was able to estimate these populations’ per capita intake of methylmercury (MeHg), which is a highly toxic form of mercury, under the direction of Professor Marc Amyot. He approximates that the people of 38 per cent (66 of 175) of the countries examined by the study might be exposed to methylmercury levels higher than the maximum deemed safe for foetal development. The highest-risk countries include the Maldives, Iceland, Malaysia, Lithuania, Japan, Barbados and South Korea. Industrialisation has released mass quantities of mercury into the air that settles in oceans and waterways that, ultimately, are absorbed by sea creatures and in turn humans if ingested. This toxin has the potential to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and impact cerebral development when consumed, especially in children and foetuses. Of the industrial fishing areas listed by the FAO, the Northwest Pacific currently exports the most
Research lab inside a museum Continued from page 2 to working with Knight to do our part in helping patients with opioid dependence by expanding access to available evidence-based medicationassisted treatments.” Probuphine is the only subdermal implant designed to deliver buprenorphine continuously for six months following a single treatment. It was developed using ProNeura, the continuous drug delivery system developed by Titan Pharmaceuticals, Inc. that consists of a small, solid implant made from a mixture of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) and buprenorphine. Four implants are inserted subdermally in the inner side of the patient’s upper arm by a healthcare professional through an in-office procedure and removed in a similar manner at the end of the treatment period. “The approval of Probuphine offers new hope in the fight against opioid dependence, a devastating public health crisis in Canada,” says Jonathan Ross Goodman, chief executive officer of Knight. “We look forward to working with all stakeholders to make Probuphine available to Canadian patients.” To see this story online visit https://laboratoryfocus.ca/knighttherapeutics-brings-probuphine-tocanada-for-opioid-dependence/
fish – and the most methylmercury. The Western Central Pacific holds second place, while the Indian Ocean ranks third. The people in these regions are some of the world’s top seafood consumers. Species high up on the food chain contain the highest concentrations of mercury. From 1950 to 2014, large fish represented approximately 60 per cent of the global catch (by weight) and nearly 90 per cent of
the mercury ingested by consumers from fish. To be safe for foetal development, the threshold for methylmercury consumption is 1.6 micrograms for each kilogram of a person’s body weight per week (1.6 μg/kg/week). For instance, the Maldivians during that 10-year period consumed an average of 23 micrograms of methylmercury per kilogram of body weight each week, or more than 14 times
what’s deemed safe. The next highest-ranking were people in Kiribati (8 μg/kg/week), Iceland (7.5 μg/kg/week), Malaysia and Samoa (6.4 μg/kg/week), French Polynesia (5 μg/kg/week), Lithuania, Japan and Barbados (4.8 μg/kg/week) and South Korea (4.7 μg/kg/week). By contrast, the global average for mercury exposure over the same 2001-2011 period was estimated at 1.7 μg/kg/week. In Canada, exposure totalled 1 μg/kg/week. Lavoie and Amyot say that their estimates are conservative. The global catch by the fishing industry, including artisanal and illegal fishing, is probably 50 per cent higher than the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) data indicates. Hopefully, these estimates will help authorities find ways to mitigate risk of mercury exposure, especially for vulnerable populations across the world. To see this story online visit https://laboratoryfocus.ca/mitigating-mercury-is-your-seafoodtoxic/
The Canadian Government puts the tools researchers need into their hands Science is continually refining and expanding our knowledge of the universe. It’s a quest to discover the unknown and seek answers to the questions that plague our curiosity. Canada’s scientists are driven to make discoveries that lead to new opportunities and a stronger economy. What they need are the sophisticated tools and laboratories that help them break new ground in areas such as climate change, clean energy, ocean research and artificial intelligence. At the University of Victoria, the Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities, announces more than $42 million for 37 universities across Canada to support 186 new research infrastructure projects. These investments, provided through the Canada Foundation for Innovation’s (CFI) John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF), will help universities attract and retain top talent from around the globe — particularly early-career researchers — with equipment that will give them a competitive advantage in their field. The University of Victoria was awarded a total of $355,000 for two projects. In the Department of Civil
Engineering, Heather Buckley’s lab will carry out cutting-edge research to tackle the challenges of contamination of drinking water in communities in mining regions. With the CFI’s support, she will build on her work to create new sensors that allow remote communities to monitor their water quality and ensure safe water supply for local residents. In the Division of Medical Sciences, Leigh Anne Swayne will work to better understand how different molecules interact to control proper development and functioning of the brain. The new funding will allow her to upgrade her lab’s existing microscope to a super-resolution fluorescence microscope, one that will support the development of therapy aimed at mitigating the effects of debilitating brain disorders, arrhythmias, syphilis infection and cancer. These investments, coupled with the Government of Canada’s significant support for basic science through the 2018 budget, will help build Canada’s reputation as an international research leader while ensuring new generations of scientists have the opportunity to realize their ambitions.
To see this story online visit https://laboratoryfocus.ca/the-canadian-government-puts-the-toolsresearchers-need-into-their-hands/
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news
Alberta-Ontario Innovation Program announces 20 cross-province projects Ontario Centres of Excellence (OCE) announces 20 new projects valued at more than $36 million. The funding is due to the Alberta-Ontario Innovation Program (AOIP), a cross-provincial collaboration between Ontario and Alberta. Projects are funded by OCE with additional funding on select projects by Alberta Innovates (AI), Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) and Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). The total project value is $36.6 million includes: • Ontario funding of $3.51 million through OCE and $3.4 million from industry partners • Alberta funding of $2.23 million through AI, $8.74 million through ERA and industry partner funding of $15.3 million • National funding of $3.32 million
through NSERC. “Alberta Innovates appreciates that a united partnership delivers greater positive impact than any one party could alone. The Alberta-Ontario Innovation Program is transformative for the participants involved as well as for our provinces, Canada and beyond,” says Laura Kilcrease, Alberta Innovates CEO. The Alberta-Ontario Innovation Program (AOIP) brings together industry and academia in cross-provincial, strategic collaborations to solve key industry challenges in both Ontario and Alberta through research and development. The program’s goal is to create economic benefits for both provinces through job retention and creation, enhanced productivity and competitiveness, knowledge transfer and industry revenue growth. Participating companies may use research
Genecis EnviroTech Inc. wins Social Enterprise Pitch Competition
The winner of the annual Social Enterprise Pitch Competition, Genecis EnviroTech Inc., who converts organic waste into high-quality biodegradable plastics, was announced at the Ontario Centres of Excellence’s (OCE) Discovery 2018 conference. The competition, held in partnership with the Ministry of Economic Development and Growth (MEDG), is part of the Social Enterprise Zone (SEZ) at Discovery. Nineteen social enterprises from across the province were selected to showcase in the SEZ this year. Five social enterprise ventures were also selected from a pool of applications for the competition to pitch live at Discovery for the $20,000 award based on their ability to demonstrate the feasibility and real measurable social/ environmental impact of their innovations across various sectors, including cleantech, education and social technology, and health and wellness. “Congratulations to Genecis EnviroTech and to all of this year’s finalists!
The Social Enterprise Pitch Competition is an amazing platform to showcase our province’s very best social entrepreneurs and their innovative, creative ideas,” says Steven Del Duca, Minister of Economic Development and Growth. “Together, we can all look forward to seeing their companies grow — making a positive and meaningful impact for communities across Ontario and the world.” The award package is valued at $20,000, including $10,000 from MEDG and a $10,000 legal-services package from Norton Rose Fulbright to assist with the further development of Genecis EnviroTech’s social enterprise. Named Canada’s Best Trade Show in 2010, 2011, 2016, and 2017, and celebrating 13 years of bold, new ideas, OCE’s Discovery is Canada’s premier innovation showcase. It brings together the best and brightest minds in industry, academia, investment and government to showcase leading-edge technologies, best practices and research in the areas of energy, fintech, cleantech, the environment, advanced health, digital media, information and communication technologies and advanced manufacturing. The annual conference and showcase attracts more than 3,600 attendees and 500 exhibitors. To see this story online visit https://laboratoryfocus.ca/genecisenvirotech-wins-social-pitch-comp/
results to their own advantage or for the benefit of their supply chains. The AOIP funded projects also focused on strengthening global competitiveness in areas such as conservation of water and energy, environmental remediation, modular manufacturing and assembly, converting waste into energy, and agriculture. “Collaboration is at the heart of the innovation ecosystem and government-funded initiatives like the Alberta-Ontario Innovation Program
recognize that through partnerships in our research and development community, we can see tremendous results for challenges facing the environment, manufacturing, jobs and the economy,” says Dr. Tom Corr, president and CEO, OCE. To see this story online visit https://laboratoryfocus.ca/albertaontario-innovation-programannounces-20-cross-provinceprojects/
Delivra releases pivotal results of on the cholesterol & lipid lowering agent Berberine Delivra Corp. announces that they have published positive data from a pre-clinical study demonstrating the safety and greater bioavailability of transdermal berberine and dihydroberberine (DHB) for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease related to high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. These results were published in the respected peer-reviewed scientific journal, PLOS ONE, under the title, “Comparative Pharmacokinetics and Safety Assessment of Transdermal Berberine and Dihydroberberine”. “This promising data supports Delivra’s research and proprietary development of topical berberine and DHB’s effectiveness to successfully reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels,” says Dr. Joseph Gabriele, CEO of Delivra. “In certain cases, this treatment may provide a natural alternative to the use of statin drugs. A Delivra-berberine therapy could avoid the side effects associated with statin drugs, including, muscle pain, liver damage, upset stomach and a range of neurological issues. This achievement represents a platform in reducing cholesterol, triglycerides and other forms of cardiovascular disease and demonstrates our proprietary
transdermal delivery system has the capability to effectively deliver a broad range of pharmaceutical and natural molecules to continue to build our pharmaceutical portfolio.” Transdermal DHB from Delivra overcomes challenges of oral medications, showing a 7-time higher concentration level in the blood than oral, with no gastrointestinal side effects. Furthermore, in a previous study, transdermal DHB proved more effective than oral in reducing cholesterol and triglycerides in a model of metabolic disease. Delivra has a PCT patent application to protect its unique berberine formulations. This publication, authored by Beth Buchanan, Qingfang Meng, Mathieu-Marc Poulin, Jonathan Zuccolo, Chike Azike, Joseph Gabriele, and David Baranowski, was partially supported by Innovation PEI through a post-doctoral award, by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency through equipment funding, and by the National Research Council – Industrial Research Assistance Program. To see this story online visit https://laboratoryfocus.ca/delivrareleases-pivotal-results-of-on-thecholesterol-lipid-lowering-agentberberine/
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news
McMaster researchers have created the ‘Sentinel’ of food Unsure if that meat is still good in your refrigerator or if you can trust your greens not to be contaminated with E. coli? McMaster researchers have developed a solution that will take the headache out of wondering so you will know what is in your food and whether it is safe to eat. Mechanical and chemical engineers at McMaster, working closely with biochemists from across campus, have joined forces to develop a transparent test patch printed with harmless molecules that can signal contamination as it happens. The patch can be incorporated directly into food packaging, where it can monitor the contents for harmful pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella. The innovative technology is described in the research journal ACS Nano, as having the potential to replace the traditional “best before” date on food and drinks alike with a
Health Canada approves Valeant Canada’s extendedrelease weight management tablets
Valeant Canada announces that Health Canada has approved Contrave extended-release tablets for use as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adults. Patients with an obese or overweight initial body mass index (BMI) with at least one weight-related comorbidity (e.g., hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus or dyslipidemia) would be appropriate patients to take the drug. Obesity is a growing problem worldwide, which is classified by excessive bodily fat. Although levels of adult obesity have remained relatively stable since 2004, the statistics presented by M. Tjepkema adult obesity 2006 health report suggest that they have doubled since 1978.
Researchers Hanie Yousefi and Thid Didar examine a transparent patch, which can be used in packaging to detect pathogens on food. Photo: McMaster University definitive indication that it’s time to chuck out that chicken or pour out that milk. If a pathogen is present in the food or drink inside the package it would trigger a signal in the packaging that could be read by a smartphone or “The approval of Contrave in Canada represents an important new option for physicians treating obesity,” says Richard Lajoie, president, Valeant Canada. “We are extremely proud to bring this new innovative treatment for Canadian patients struggling to lose weight for the improvement of their health and quality of life. Obesity is a growing problem for patients and the Canadian economy with approximately 40 per cent of Canadian adults overweight or obese, and an economic burden ranging from $4.6 billion to $7.1 billion annually.” Across four Phase III studies, patients who took Contrave with a BMI over 27 and a weight-related comorbidity and patients affected by obesity (BMI over 30) lost up to four times more weight over one year by adding Contrave than with diet and exercise alone. In addition, over 60 per cent of patients taking Contrave lost five per cent or more body weight and kept it off for 56 weeks versus 23 per cent of patients taking a placebo. Contrave has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States since September 2014. Canada is the 25th country to launch the drug worldwide. Valeant Canada licenses Contrave from Orexigen Therapeutics, Inc. To see this story online visit https://laboratoryfocus.ca/healthcanada-approves-valeant-canadasextended-release-weight-management-tablets/
other simple device. The test itself does not affect the contents of the package. According to the World Health Organization, foodborne pathogens result in approximately 600 million illnesses and 420,000 deaths per year. About
30 per cent of those cases involve children five years old and younger. The researchers have dubbed this new material “Sentinel Wrap” in tribute to the McMaster-based Sentinel Bioactive Paper Network – an interdisciplinary research network that worked on paper-based detection systems, and ultimately gave rise to this new foodtesting technology. Mass producing such a patch would be fairly cheap and simple, the researchers say, as the DNA molecules that detect food pathogens can be printed onto the test material. However, getting this technology to market would require a commercial partner and regulatory approvals. This technology could open the doors for use in other applications, such as bandages detecting wound infection and wrapping surgical instruments to ensure sterility. To see this story online visit https://laboratoryfocus.ca/mcmasterresearchers-created-sentinel-food/
Valens GroWorks breaks ground and commences construction of $75-M new facility Valens GroWorks breaks ground with their new subsidiary company Valens Farms and commences construction of its $75-million 400,000 square foot commercial cannabis production facility in the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia in a joint venture partnership with Kosha Products Inc. “This is a pivotal initiative for the Okanagan Valley, for British Columbia, the Canadian cannabis sector, and our goal of providing premium cannabis and derivatives to the world’s natural health products industry,” says Tyler Robson, CEO of Valens GroWorks. “We are very proud of what Valens Farms represents, as an important contributor to the local economy through investments and job creation, and as a partner in our previously announced Centre of Excellence in Plant Based Medicine Analytics initiative underway in nearby Kelowna.” The municipality of the city of Armstrong has approved the building of up to 851,200 square feet of greenhouse and indoor facilities, representing 40 per cent site coverage on the 50-acre property currently owned by Kosha. “I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with a company that is passionate about what they do, about the products they produce, and
has a particular focus on innovation and value,” states Ashley McGrath, president of Kosha. “Valens benefits from our real estate planning and development experience and as an off-balance sheet funding source, and we in turn participate in the exciting growth potential of this nascent industry.” The joint venture partnership will see Kosha contribute the land and all facility development and construction costs and related expertise. Valens will provide design and outfitting inputs, budgetary guidance, consulting and advisory services during construction and development of the facility. Valens Farms will operate the facility to commercially produce premium quality cannabis and expand the company’s CO2-extracted cannabis oil capacity. Upon initial construction and development cost recoupment by Kosha, each of Valens Farms and Kosha are entitled to 50 per cent of the revenues earned, and a 50 per cent interest in all the combined assets. To see this story online visit https://laboratoryfocus.ca/valensgroworks-breaks-ground-and-commences-construction-of-75-m-newfacility/
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Appointments
MYM Nutraceuticals Inc. announces that Dr. Charith Adkar has joined MYM as its new chief science officer (CFO). Charith completed his PhD in Plant Biol-
industries, including pharmaceuticals, life sciences and healthcare. Millette is a lawyer, holds a bachelor of commerce and a law degree from the University of Montreal, and holds the designations of Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). CIHR appoints Dr. Christopher McMaster as the new scientific director of CIHR’s Institute of Genetics. This appointment will be effective July 1, 2018. McMaster is a professor and head of the Department of Pharmacology at
Dr. Charith Adkar ogy and Crop Production from the University of Milano, Italy with the specialization in molecular plant pathology. He completed his postdoctoral studies at Hirosaki University, Japan and Université de Sherbrooke, Canada. His areas of expertise include Plant Science, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Molecular host-pathogen interactions and Bioinformatics. He will manage MYM’s scientific, research and technological operations, and will work primarily at the Laval and Weedon production facilities. ExCellThera Inc. announces the appointment of David Millette as chief financial and legal officer. Millette combines a solid background in finance and law, having practised
David Millette in the areas of accounting, finance and management consulting with a leading firm of chartered professional accountants for several years, and in the areas of corporate and securities law, financings and business acquisitions and sales for over a decade, including several years as a partner, with a top tier international law firm. He has a broad range of financial, legal and strategic experience across several
Dr. Christopher McMaster
Dalhousie University, and director of the Cheminformatics Drug Discovery Lab, which uses sophisticated software to design new drugs. He is also the co-founder and CEO of DeNovaMed, a biotechnology company that uses computer-aided design to drive the development of new classes of antimicrobials to address the global health threat of antimicrobial resistance. As Scientific Director, McMaster will work with his community to identify research priorities, develop funding opportunities, build partnerships, and translate research evidence into policy and practice to improve the health of Canadians and people around the world. As a member of CIHR’s leadership team, he will participate in setting and implementing CIHR’s strategic direction. The Centre for Drug Research and Development, Canada’s national drug development and commercialization centre, announces the appointment of Dr. Lana Janes as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence. As a life sciences industry executive for over 20 years, Janes has extensive pharmaceutical development experience that spans the full life cycle of therapeutic product development from discovery through commercialization. As an Entrepreneur-inResidence, she will work with CDRD
Dr. Lana Janes leadership to identify specific areas of strategic commercial opportunity, and then in partnership with other stakeholders, drive the building of a new company of scale that can develop those opportunities, and grow into a strong new anchor for Canada’s life science sector. Her previous positions include senior vice president, intellectual property and technology development and chief patent officer, with leadership and oversight responsibilities for all R&D aspects of Novelion Therapeutics’ late-stage ophthalmology orphan assets. Janes received her AB in Chemistry with Honours from Harvard University and her PhD in organic chemistry with Honours from McGill University, where she also conducted post-doctoral work in the field of biological organic chemistry. She is also registered to practice as a patent agent in both Canada and the US, is an author of numerous scientific publications in the field of organic and medical chemistry. Aptose Biosciences Inc. appoints Caroline M. Loewy to the Board of Directors. Aptose’s Board of Directors now includes seven members with extensive experience across diverse disciplines in biotechnology and pharmaceutical development. Loewy is an accomplished executive leader with more than 25 years of experience in accelerating biotechnology product development and growth. She currently provides strategic advisory services to life science companies on a variety
Caroline M. Loewy
of high-impact matters including funding strategies, product pipeline evaluation, and assessing business development opportunities. She has held numerous executive roles; most recently, she co-founded and served as chief financial officer and chief business officer of Achieve Life Sciences, Inc. Prior to that, she held the position of chief financial officer of both public and private biopharmaceutical companies including Tobira Therapeutics, Inc., Corcept Therapeutics Incorporated, and Poniard Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Loewy also spent 11 years as a senior biotechnology equity research analyst at Morgan Stanley and Prudential Securities. She sits on the board of directors of CymaBay Therapeutics Inc.; is a founding board member of the Global Genes Project, one of the leading rare disease patient advocacy organizations in the world; and is a member of the National Advisory Council of the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) Center for Rare Childhood Disorders. She is also a founding board member of the KCNQ2 Cure Alliance Foundation and holds a BA degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and an MBA/MS degree from Carnegie Mellon University. InMed Pharmaceuticals Inc. announces the addition of Dr. Vikramaditya G. Yadav to its Scientific Advisory Board. Yadav is an assistant professor in the Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering and School of Biomedical Engineering at the University of British Columbia (UBC), and currently serves as the Chair of the Biotechnology Division of the Chemical Institute of Canada. He has been recognized by Medicine Maker journal as one of the 100 most influential people in drug development and manufacturing. Yadav received his doctoral degree in chemical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His graduate work focused on enzyme and microbial metabolic engineering for the synthesis of pharmaceuticals. He later conducted post-doctoral research on biophysics and biological thermodynamics at Harvard University. He joined UBC, Canada’s pre-eminent center for biotechnology research, in the summer of 2014 and has since established a world-leading, industry- connected research group that works on wide-ranging topics such as metagenomics, plant chemistry, tissue engineering, drug discovery and pharmaceutical manufacturing. Yadav received his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Waterloo.
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B y L o r i M c Ke ll a r
feature
Ways to Battle Information Complexity in Life Sciences
Almost all organizations, no matter the industry, are facing the need to manage and store information securely. Life sciences companies are no exception – the drug development process is information and data intensive, and regulatory submissions, for example, can span hundreds of thousands of pages. It can be daunting for team members trying to work together and navigate the complexities of storing, sharing and collaborating on documents across internal domains within life sciences. This situation becomes even more challenging when you consider the ecosystem of external partners who also need to access information and participate in key business processes. To help simplify this information overload, enterprise information management (EIM) solutions tailored to keep data compliant with industry best practice and government regulations are powering better ways of collaborating.
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They enhance productivity by letting teams access and share information and manage tasks when working outside the organization from any location (such as an executive who is travelling or an external partner). Most life sciences organizations have made significant investments in EIM systems and they are often customized to align with critical business processes. These systems hold mountains of critical information and include a web of software integrations within their operational systems that are necessary to support end-to-end processes. Therefore, it is understandable that
life sciences companies are looking for ways to deliver simplicity and improve productivity. However, they also want to leverage existing investments rather than embarking on large migration efforts or maintaining duplicate systems. The good news is that today, the opportunity to deploy tools and solutions to help teams work better together both internally and with outside partners can accelerate workflows, cut down on problems related to document management and improve time-tomarket, while keeping information secure and compliant as long as best practices are followed.
1. Simplify external partnerships In order to improve development times and cut down on the costs of developing new products and services, companies in Life Sciences collaborate by sharing their skills and expertise. One example often seen today is the relationship between contract research organizations and pharmaceutical companies that sponsor them. These strategic partnerships are underpinned by the ability to easily share information and collaborate openly, demonstrating the power of modern strategies for managing information. For these partnerships to succeed, information needs to flow while staying secure. These external partners require access to sensitive or highly regulated documents that must adhere to the organization’s own security policies, and the larger regulations of the industry and region where the company operates. There should be an easy way to enable this collaboration so as not to slow down any processes.
2. Break down internal and external barriers Internal collaboration between departments in large organizations – especially life sciences organizations – is often difficult because in the past, compliance was the driver for keeping information locked down. The result is that information is often siloed within departments. These silos of information have prevented users from easily sharing information (even with internal stakeholders). Today’s information management systems are letting users work more productively in that complex environment. These systems are helping teams work better internally across domains, for example, sharing information between clinical, regulatory and quality assurance teams, and those capabilities are
Most life sciences organizations have made significant investments in EIM systems and they are often customized to align with critical business processes. These systems hold mountains of critical information and include a web of software integrations within their operational systems that are necessary to support end-to-end processes.
being extended to external partners and infrequent users outside organizations. Sharing information internally means breaking down information silos and allowing critical content to be shared seamlessly with others without worrying about compliance. Sharing information outside an organization in life sciences presents additional challenges but current approaches to security enable information to be shared with key partners and stakeholders without adding complexity.
3. Make sure external partners are managed securely Life sciences is highly competitive and organizations must be able to stay on top of applications, trials, regulatory work and other tasks (that all require multiple stakeholders – both internal and external - to review and approve), while adhering to the specific regulations around privacy and security for each country in which they operate. With many partners to manage and engage, from contract research groups, to regulatory bodies and suppliers (supply chain management) users need a simple way to collaborate and share information. When considering tasks and processes in the industry that must be done repetitively with the same high standards, such as quality assurance where there are many moving pieces, employees and partners must know and follow the same standard operating procedures. Similarly, most people working in the regulatory and clinical areas need access to systems of record to review and approve content. Just as in any field, they are often under pressure to do their jobs quickly to complete mission-critical tasks in the chain.
4. Keep it simple for team members While simplicity might be important for many industries, keeping information access simple in life sciences is not trivial. The information and files being stored and shared are incredibly varied. From biomedical research to genomic data, documents and reports are often accessed by different teams for regulatory submissions, intellectual property management and research and development collaboration. Beyond the diverse file types, the sheer volume of data makes it difficult to manage. These organizations are some of the most demanding when it comes to storing and managing data – often
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feature Life sciences organizations must strive toward giving users the ability to quickly organize and group related information in collections so users can quickly see different types of regulatory forms, documents or important data all from a single location.
responsible for (1 billion gigabytes) of data and information. With so many hurdles, users managing this information should not be forced to navigate clunky interfaces or be forced to undergo long training to understand how to use applications. Instead, today’s solutions are helping life sciences organizations collaborate and share complex tasks. Life sciences organizations must strive toward giving users the ability to quickly organize and group related information in collections so users can quickly see different types of regulatory forms, documents or important data all from a single location.
5. Use information to keep improving While gaining access to critical content and being able to complete tasks is necessary, organizations are also striving to gain new efficiencies by analyzing the mountains of information they have accumulated
on key business processes. For example, modern big data tools combined with analytics can help draw attention to areas requiring additional support or oversight to help improve overall organizational productivity. Like a regulatory dashboard where the time from submission to approval is clearly indicated. This type of graphical report can help a life sciences company focus its resources on areas where it lags and help it more accurately determine its regulatory strategy by market. Similar dashboards could be utilized to understand clinical trial sites’ adherence to submitting required paperwork. Looking to the future Enabling new ways of collaboration using cloud technologies is often a phased approach for life sciences companies, especially given the strategic nature of the information that must be managed, moved and the considerations required when evaluating the complexity of
integrations with existing systems. A tempered adoption strategy can be used, where certain cloud-based collaboration tools are launched while maintaining investments in existing systems. A hybrid strategy allows life sciences organizations to use new technologies and tools to improve productivity, efficiency and remain competitive, while maintaining strict adherence to laws and regulations and leveraging and maximizing the existing investments. As new techniques and technologies are developed, the sheer amount of data being produced by researchers and demanded by regulators will likely only increase. Organizations will have to keep simplicity and the user experience top of mind as they continue to evolve the way they work with multiple stakeholders. As new technology is adopted, security, regulation and adherence to regional variations in rules must be considered when enabling new ways of collaborating. However, the end-goal of creating new efficiencies
in the industry through new technologies will help life sciences companies maintain their competitiveness as the industry continues to evolve.
Lori McKellar is Director, Solution Marketing in Life Sciences at OpenText.
To see this story online visit https://laboratoryfocus.ca/5-ways-to-battleinformation-complexity-in-lifesciences/
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May/June 2018 Laboratory Focus www.laboratoryfocus.ca
Feature
B y Jeffrey C. Sm ith
In situ TrEnDi:
enhancing the sensitivity and safety of MS-based quantitative lipidomics analyses via novel chemistry on a new device
Cellular life involves precise coordinated interactions of a huge array of biological molecules acting in concert with one another in order to sustain survival.
A
s a cell undergoes stress or interacts with its environment, these biomolecular interactions alter to compensate for any given change. In an ecosystem, cellular biomolecular interactions are in a constant state of flux to maintain the homeostasis of the organism. These dynamic interactions are important for us to understand in order to have a full appreciation of how cells really work. This is perhaps most poignant in the case of diseases, whereby aberrant biomolecular interactions or dynamics have been demonstrated to drive cells to an unhealthy state or even death. One of the best techniques that has emerged in the past
few decades to investigate biomolecular dynamics is mass spectrometry (MS). Mass spectrometers are able to identify biomolecules by determining their masses and comparing them to the masses of known biomolecules. To increase specificity, MS is able to break apart individual biomolecules and measure the masses of the resulting fragments in order to provide unambiguous identification. MS can also measure the abundance of biomolecules between different cellular states and yield insight into any dynamics that occur over time. One class of biomolecules that has received increased attention over the past decade is lipids. Originally categorized as solely energy storage or
structural biomolecules, the roles of lipids have expanded to include mediation or acting as second messengers in signal transduction in a wide array of cellular processes. MS has proven a useful tool in analyzing lipids from complex biological samples; however, it is not without limitations. Several classes of lipids do not ionize efficiently and as the complexity of a given sample increases, the suppression of ionization becomes more pronounced. In many cases, lipids that are involved in cellular communication are of low abundance making their detection more difficult yet also critical in order to accurately elucidate cellular mechanisms. In order to increase the sensitivity of MS-
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Feature
based analysis and permit low abundance lipid detection, mass spectrometer design has improved over the years and the effects of different solvents and additives have been investigated to push analyte equilibria to an ionized state. Despite these improvements, many lipids in complex biological samples remain unobservable even when using state of the art equipment. To address this, our research team took a different approach by developing a new chemical derivatization technique called Trimethylation Enhancement using Diazomethane, or TrEnDi (Figure 1). Rather than attempt to change the instrumental conditions to promote the formation of analyte ions, TrEnDi results in a fixed permanent positive charge on lipid analytes obviating any need for ionization agents (e.g. organic acids or monovalent metal ions) during electrospray ionization. For the past four years, we have published several articles on the use of TrEnDi to chemically derivatize glycerophospholipids from biological samples to enhance the sensitivity of their analysis by MS. TrEnDi uses the highly reactive molecule diazomethane to methylate biomolecule functional groups that have pKa values less than 11. Phosphate and carboxylic acids are methylated to neutrality and primary amine groups are rendered positively charged; sen-
sitivity is enhanced between one to four orders of magnitude depending on lipid class and electrospray solvent conditions. In particular, the lipid subclasses phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylserine (PS) experience a dramatic boost in sensitivity as these analytes are ionized in a uniform manner (Figure 2). PS and PE are typically ionized through a combination of binding protons or sodium ions; TrEnDi consolidates these different ionization modes into a single mass, and therefore a single peak in the mass spectrum, as protons or sodium ions can no longer bind to the lipids. Furthermore, protonated or sodiated PE and PS fragment into many different fragments in MS where TrEnDi-modified PE and PS fragment into one and two different fragments, respectively, translating into increased sensitivity in tandem MS experiments. A synthetic route to create isotopically labeled diazomethane on the carbon atom of the molecule was also developed2 and subsequently employed in TrEnDi to differentiate PE from phosphatidylcholine (PC) lipids.3 Recently, we have developed a device to generate diazomethane in situ that allows for its immediate reaction without user manipulation, opening the door to even more reactive diazobased chemistry. A modular device has been constructed using crimp-top glass vials, a syringe and a nitrogen
MS has proven a useful tool in analyzing lipids from complex biological samples; however, not without limitations. Several classes of lipids do not ionize efficiently and as the complexity of a given sample increases, the suppression of ionization becomes more pronounced. source connected by fused silica tubing. The first vial contains aqueous N-nitroso-N-methylurea covered by an ethereal layer. The septum of this vial is pierced by three lines of fused
Figure 1
Reaction pathway schematic for TrEnDi on a molecule of phosphatidylethanolamine (PE).1
silica, the ends of two being suspended above the ether while the third extends down into the aqueous layer. The submerged line delivers a small flow of nitrogen to the vial while one of the suspended lines is connected to a syringe that administers potassium hydroxide at a controlled rate. The other suspended line delivers ether vapour mixed with the in situ-generated diazomethane into the solvent of a second vial containing the lipid analyte(s). The nitrogen pressure and reaction times were optimized for a solution containing PC, PE, PS and sphingomyelin (SM). It was quickly observed that the device performed TrEnDi equally as well as when TrEnDi was conducted in solution; all products were derivatized to completion. The device was quickly modified to be more robust by replacing lines with PEEK tubing and using Luer lock connections with needles for piercing the septa. Moreover, the administration of the base was automated with a syringe pump rending the entire process automated without the need for user intervention. Although extreme precautions have always been employed when working with diazomethane since the inception of TrEnDi, the risk of exposure to diazomethane has remained of paramount concern to our team. This device takes the user
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feature possibly due to differences in desolvation during the electrospray process. Finally, this device permits the tunability of the TrEnDi chemistry via precisely controlling the composition of the solvent that the analyte is dissolved in. Initial results have indicated that the pKa of the functional groups that are affected by this derivatization procedure may be controlled by regulating solvent composition and adding specific modifying agents during the reaction. Our hope is that this device will render the benefits of TrEnDi derivatization amenable to laboratory workflows beyond our own group and that the biomolecular mechanisms of cellular life may be explored to greater depths than that which has been previously accessible.
Figure 2
PE and PS are rendered permanently positively charged via TrEnDi derivatization, increasing the sensitivity of their analysis by MS.1
This device takes the user out of the picture and generates diazomethane in situ in an automated fashion behind a closed fumehood and blast shield, eliminating the minute possibility of accidental exposure. Standard lipid analytes and complex lipid mixtures were both successfully methylated to completion. out of the picture and generates diazomethane in situ in an automated fashion behind a closed fumehood and blast shield, eliminating the minute possibility of accidental exposure. Standard lipid analytes and complex lipid mixtures were both successfully methylated to completion. The device permits the methyla-
tion of analytes within aqueous or organic solvents and also enables experimentation with diazo compounds with even higher reactivity. For example, in situ generation of diazoethane was conducted by replacing the N-nitroso-N-methylurea with Nethyl-N-nitrosourea. More time was required to completely derivatize the
lipids with diazoethane owing to differences in its volatility compared to diazomethane; however, complete derivatization of all analytes was observed. Our initial results suggest that diazoethane increases the sensitivity of MS analysis of glycerophospholipids to an even greater degree than diazomethane-based derivatization,
References: 1. Wasslen, Canez, Lee, Manthorpe, Smith. Anal. Chem., 2014, 86 (19), 9523–9532. 2. Shields and Manthorpe. J Lablled Comp Radiopharm., 2014, 12, 674-679. 3. Canez, Shields, Bugno, Wasslen, Weinert, Willmore, Manthorpe, Smith. Anal Chem. 2016, 88 (14), 6996-7004.
Jeff Smith is Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and the Institute of Biochemistry at Carleton University and is currently the Director of the Carleton Mass Spectrometry Centre. His research focusses on the use of mass spectrometry to investigate the biomolecular mechanisms of cellular life.
To see this story online visit https:// laboratoryfocus.ca/ in-situ-trendi-enhancingthe-sensitivity-and-safetyof-ms-based-quantitativelipidomics-analyses-via-novelchemistry-on-a-new-device/
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Feature
By Rob O’Brien
The role of Mass Spectrometry in the evolving
Cannabis Sector Cannabis legalization is coming to Canada and with it will come a significant economic sector that will exceed 25 billion dollars in economic impact when the revenues from the medicinal, recreational and auxiliary aspects of this are considered. There will also be a range of social and cultural impacts that are difficult if not impossible to predict and I suspect that most predictions are likely more closely aligned with the political world view of the predictor than they are with reality. In this article, I draw on my industrial and academic experience to outline some areas where mass spectrometry will play a role in the sector.
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feature The sensitivity of advanced analytical mass spectrometry systems will enable detection at levels where even interactions with contaminated currency could lead to a positive test if the obtainable detection limits are low enough.
T
he most obvious role for mass spectrometry and analytical chemistry is in quality control. There are a series of chemical tests routinely performed on cannabis products, namely potency (cannabinoids), terpene profiles, pesticide screen, toxic metal screen and for derivative products residual solvent analysis. Of these tests, the concentration of the cannabinoids measured for potency (THC, THCA, CBD, CBDA) and the terpenes concentrations are high enough that mass spectrometry is not the technique of choice as these are most cost effectively run using HPLC with UV detection or GC-FID. On the other hand, both LCMSMS and GCMSMS are required to meet the new Health Canada requirements for pesticide testing. We also use ICPMS for toxic metal analysis and Headspace GCMS for residual solvents. However, the need for mass spectrometric tools goes far beyond the running of routine testing protocols. In addition to the new Cannabis Act, the Canadian government is also modifying the criminal code under Bill C-46 to address THC intoxication as a driving impairment. Specifically, the act states that the “…offence level for THC under the
proposed hybrid offence would be set at ≥5 nanograms (ng) per millilitre of blood. For the proposed summary conviction offence, a BDC level of ≥2 ng and <5 ng/ml of THC would be established.” In addition to, these other drugs of abuse are also designed to be monitored. “With respect to LSD, psilocin/psilocybin, PCP, 6-MAM, ketamine, cocaine and methamphetamine, it is proposed that any level of these drugs, detectable in blood within two hours of driving, be prohibited under the new hybrid criminal offence.” Although there does not seem to be much research supporting the action level for driving impairment of 5 ng/mL, it should be reasonable to validate a MS based analytical protocol at this level. It is very likely that the onsite screening systems will receive a number of challenges that will require additional full lab support using MS as a detection approach. Furthermore, it is also likely that some employers will also be looking to require their employees to undergo drug testing and so I expect that there will be a significant demand for forensic drug testing and mass spectrometry will remain the technique of choice for such work. The use of the phrase “…any lev-
el..” in a law in reference to a drug or any compound, seems to open up a can of worms. This will undoubtably lead to legal challenges with forensic testing, thus mass spectrometry, providing evidence on both sides of the legal argument. The sensitivity of advanced analytical mass spectrometry systems will enable detection at levels where even interactions with contaminated currency could lead to a positive
test if the obtainable detection limits are low enough. Another area of advanced mass spectrometric techniques that may not immediately come to mind is the ability to identify products from various sources due to distinct chemical fingerprint techniques. In our case, we are proposing to use full scan ICPMS as a means of fingerprinting products. Given the unique combination of
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Feature water sources, nutrients, soil medium and the ability to purposely add sub-nutrient it is often possible to be able to definitively identify a specific product from a specific supplier. Supra THC Services is actively working on developing the essential research protocols to support such work. In terms of clinical research there is also a significant role for mass spectrometry. Cannabis is indeed a unique medicinal product, there are very few drugs that patients can use both recreationally and medicinally. Given the illicit nature of cannabis use outside of medical prescription, there is some possibility that patients may not be completely forth right with their medical history. Furthermore, when attempting a clinical trial, there are very few other drugs where both the control group and the test group could be accessing the “test drug” independently from the study. On top of all of this the manner in which the patient consumes the product can drastically impact the effective dose that enters the patients blood stream. Consider the following scenarios: a patient is given one gram of a dried bud material to use as a smoked product. If they choose to smoke this as a traditional joint, there are many factors that can impact the dose of THC and CBD that they absorb. These include draw rate, which im-
pacts pyrolysis byproducts, cannabinoid destruction rate, volume of gas inhaled and other factors that most people would guess. However, even if two people do these things exactly the same, if one draws the smoke deeply into their lungs and a second draws into their mouth and releases through their nose, the absorption dynamics can be much different. If the patient choses to use a herbal vaporizer, where the temperature realized by the plant material is only 200°C ±20°C, there will not be sufficient temperature to induce pyrolysis, but enough to vaporize the cannabinoids and terpenes in your sample. As a result, herbal vaporizers typically deliver a higher dose of actives while not delivering pyrolysis by-products or dangerous particulate matter released during pyrolysis. As strange as it sounds, smoking technique matters and impacts absorbed dose. In a second scenario, if the patient is given a dose of THC or CBD in an edible oil product, the delivery dose can be much more readily controlled, however, the means of taking this dose can also impact absorbed dose. An ingested sample that is swallowed takes a significant time to be absorbed (30-40 minutes) and it goes through first pass metabolism where most of the THC is converted to 11-Hydroxy-Δ9- tet-
Cannabis is indeed a unique medicinal product, there are very few drugs that patients can use both recreationally and medicinally.
In addition to using mass spectrometry to measure phytocannabinoids, we expect that the measurement of the biomarkers of the endocannabinoid system, namely Anandamide (AEA) and 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), will also develop into an important bioassay to assess the condition of the endocannabinoid system.
rahydrocannabinol (11-OH-THC), a metabolite that is much more potent and long lived than the THC in the material. On the other hand, sublingual application of the oil can lead to a quicker onset (15 to 30 minutes) and very little initial metabolism. Given all these issues, it become very difficult to run a controlled clinical trial using traditional approaches. An alternate approach is to use “molecular epidemiology” to monitor absorbed dose and correlate that with medicinal effects and possibly even the metabolomics impacts of the treatment. In addition to using mass spectrometry to measure phytocannabinoids, we expect that the measurement of the biomarkers of the endocannabinoid system, namely Anandamide
(AEA) and 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), will also develop into an important bioassay to assess the condition of the endocannabinoid system. When all things are considered, we anticipate that the demand for mass spectrometry based will increase significantly over the next few years as the impact of the >$20 billion cannabis sector trickles though the scientific lab community.
Rob O’Brien is the president and chief science officer at Valens GroWorks. https://www.linkedin. com/in/suprarob/
To see this story and all the figures online visit https:// laboratoryfocus.ca/the-roleof-mass-spectrometry-inthe-evolving-cannabissector/
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New Products Hazardous fume prevention Scientists, chemical hygienists and researchers who work with highperformance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and similar liquid-based technologies will require reliable protection against harmful chemical vapours in the laboratory. This can be done with VapLock Closed Systems for solvent delivery and waste containment. They safeguard technicians and the environment and help maintain compliance with government safety regulations and laboratory best practices. The systems also regulate solvent extraction, maintain pressure equilibrium and control evaporation of the mobile phase, facilitating more repeatable analytical results. Critical analytical instruments, such as HPLC, commonly use organic solvents. Reagent and collection vessels are often left open or ineffectively closed with films and aluminum foil, venting potentially toxic vapours to the atmosphere. These systems offer a mechanical means to reduce exposure to volatile organic fumes and hazardous waste solvents. They are modular and versatile, with a full range of available options to adapt to most any equipment setup, including a variety of materials for chemical compatibility and multiple port connections and bottle cap sizes.
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High-resolution imaging
May/June 2018 Laboratory Focus www.laboratoryfocus.ca
Human immune monitoring panel kit Fluidigm has launched the Maxpar Human Immune Monitoring Panel Kit for comprehensive immune cell profiling in cancer and immunemediated diseases. Designed for use with the company’s Helios CyTOF mass cytometry system, the new kit contains 29 metal-labeled antibodies and reagents designed and optimized for deep immune profiling of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells in a single tube. The panel biomarkers were selected in collaboration with pharmaceutical companies and academic institutions, and are optimized for routine high-parameter immune profiling. Multiple third-party data-analysis options are available to analyze results from the panel, including Cytobank and GemStone software. Verity Software House is providing free access to an enhanced version of GemStone software to customers who purchase the kit.
https://www.fluidigm.com/
Compounds mixer The Thinky ARM-310 engineering compounds mixer provides consistent mixing results with simple operation and no mixing implements to clean. Like the rest of the Thinky mixing machines, the Thinky ARM310 uses planetary centrifugal motion to quickly and homogeneously disperse engineering compounds such as adhesives, sealants, lubricants, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals. Mixing takes place in removable containers so that there is no mess to clean up after mixing to save valuable time and avoiding cross-contamination. The automated mixing process works in seconds to minutes, and provides the same mixing results every time, with a fast return on investment compared to manual mixing. Mixing programs can be stored in the mixer’s memory for easy operator use.
https://www.intertronics.co.uk/ Under development since 2007, patented since 2010, and released to the market in 2017, Fluid Imaging Technologies introduces the newest member of the FlowCam family, the FlowCam Nano. Using oil-immersion flow microscopy, Nano-Flow Imaging delivers high-resolution images of nanoparticles in your liquid samples. FlowCam Nano from Fluid Imaging Technologies automatically reveals protein agglomerates, silicon oil droplets, glass shards and other opaque, transparent and translucent sub-visible particles with the highresolution imagery needed for identification. The instrumentation provides digital images of particles ranging in size from 300 nm to 30 µm. Ideal for analytical scientists, biochemists, formulation scientists, lab managers and other biopharmaceutical professionals. The particle analyzer was developed to find, expose and identify nanoparticles in protein formulations and help track the progression of protein agglomerates from individual, proteinaceous particles into the larger aggregates that pose a threat to the safety, efficacy, stability, and longevity of parenteral bioformulations. In addition, it may serve as a valuable companion to USP<788> compliance testing methods for particulate matter by documenting the presence and type of nanoscale particles, which may cause failed test results.
www.fluidimaging.com
RNAscope assays Bio-Techne launches its RNAscope VS Duplex kit, which delivers simultaneous in situ detection of two RNA species on an automated platform. The assay enables experiments including co-localization studies and gene expression profiling in specific cell types identifiable with known markers. The assay delivers improved specificity and sensitivity with clean signals, allowing researchers to pinpoint gene expression at single-molecule sensitivity. In addition, Bio-Techne launches the RNAScope VS Universal HRP and AP assays, which will integrate with Roche’s mRNA universal software. The assays also have protocols that allow dual staining with immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence. Bio-Techne also releases the updated RNAscope 2.5 VS Reagent Kit-BROWN and -RED assays, which deliver permanent and intensified staining. The firm claims the assays are suitable for archiving and are ideal when anticipating low copy target gene expression.
https://www.bio-techne.com/
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Laboratory Focus May/June 2018
Selective plane illumination microscopy The ct-dSPIM is a flexible and easy-to-use selective plane illumination microscopy (SPIM) configuration from Applied Scientific Instrumentation (ASI), made from the company’s flexible and modular microscope components, allowing dual-views of large samples of cleared tissue. When used with ASI and Special Optics’s new objective optimized for light sheet imaging of cleared tissue, imaging depth can exceed 5mm into flat samples. The objective accommodates media RI from 1.33 to 1.56 (aqueous or organic media). The ct-dSPIM has successfully imaged various cleared tissue samples from microtome-cut slices to whole mouse brains. Unlike other light sheet techniques, this SPIM concept uses two objectives, oriented 45° from vertical, at right angles to one another above a horizontally mounted sample in an open dish. A light sheet is created from one objective and imaged through the other. A stack of images can be collected by moving the light sheet through the sample; in the case of the ct-dSPIM, the sample is normally moved through a stationary light sheet using an XY stage. As a dual-view system, the roles of the objectives can then be reversed to collect another stack from a different perspective; computationally merging the two stacks yields a 3D dataset with 2x improvement in axial resolution.
http://www.asiimaging.com
Morphological imaging Malvern Panalytical’s Morphologi 4 automated static imaging system and Morphologi 4-ID with integrated Morphologically-Directed Raman Spectroscopy (MDRS) are the ultimate solutions for scientists seeking absolute analysis and understanding of their samples. Morphological imaging is fast becoming an essential technology in the laboratory toolkit for particle characterization. Providing automated, rapid and component-specific morphological information, Morphologi instruments can be used to solve formulation and deformulation challenges, optimize material properties and create confidence throughout development and manufacturing. Detailed particle characterization, including shape and size analysis and chemical identification, enables thorough understanding of materials and how they impact the final product, in industries ranging from pharmaceutical development to metal powder processing and electrode manufacture. This level of knowledge creates confidence and control in optimized development and manufacture processes, and provides quick identification of the cause of process deviations.
www.malvernpanalytical.com
RNAscope assays Bio-Techne launches its RNAscope VS Duplex kit, which delivers simultaneous in situ detection of two RNA species on an automated platform. The assay enables experiments including colocalization studies and gene expression profiling in specific cell types identifiable with known markers. The assay delivers improved specificity and sensitivity with clean signals, allowing researchers to pinpoint gene expression at single-molecule sensitivity. In addition, Bio-Techne launches the RNAScope VS Universal HRP and AP assays, which will integrate with Roche’s mRNA universal software. The assays also have protocols that allow dual staining with immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence. Bio-Techne also releases the updated RNAscope 2.5
New Products VS Reagent Kit-BROWN and -RED assays, which deliver permanent and intensified staining. The firm claims the assay are suitable for archiving and are ideal when anticipating low copy target gene expression.
https://www.bio-techne.com/
Flow Cytometers MilliporeSigma launches its new CellStream benchtop flow cytometry system, a compact, customizable flow cytometer that uses a camera for detection. Its optics system and design provide researchers with unparalleled sensitivity and flexibility when analyzing cells and submicron particles. Its time-delay integration and camera technology rapidly captures low-resolution cell images and converts them to high-throughput intensity data with enhanced fluorescence sensitivity. The new system can be used in a wide variety of research areas, including exosome research, where it can identify small populations unable to be seen on other cytometers. MilliporeSigma developed this new technology with the same patent-protected optics system as its Amnis flow cytometers, which are used in academic, biotech and pharmaceutical cell analysis and research applications. The CellStream flow cytometry system offers multiple innovative features, including: • Fully customizable 7-laser capacity provides unparalleled versatility and the capability to obtain up to 22 detection channels. • Patent-protected TDI sensor and camera technology enables high fluorescence sensitivity. • The system may be fully and quickly upgraded on-site to add more lasers if needed. • Standard 96-well plate auto-sampler is available on all instruments to capture high-throughput intensity data. • Event gallery allows visual verification of cell populations and helps troubleshoot.
http://www.emdmillipore.com/CA/en
Electromagnetic flowmeter KROHNE, Inc. announces the FLEXMAG 4050 C, the first electromagnetic flowmeter with biocompatible disposable flow tube specifically developed for single-use biopharmaceutical applications, including filtration processes, chromatography, or buffer and media preparation. Featuring extremely high accuracy and factory calibration that eliminates the need for in-situ calibration, the FLEXMAG 4050 C includes a biocompatible and gamma sterilisable disposable flow tube. As an electromagnetic meter, the FLEXMAG 4050 C will not drift over time. It provides a completely stable, direct and accurate volumetric flow measurement, unaffected by fluid properties such as colour or density. The single-use flow path tubes are gamma sterilisable at 25…40 kGy irradiation. All wetted materials comply with FDA/USP Class VI and ISO 10993 and are manufactured in an ISO 13485 certified site within an ISO 7 clean room environment. The flow tube uses a single barb fitting that meets biopharmaceutical requirements for adaptation to single-use systems. The tube’s full-bore construction is designed for minimal hold-up volume without obstruction, and the single barb fitting is suitable for braided as well as nonbraided hoses. Disposable single-use flow tubes are packed in double sealed individual pouches, and the transmitter can accommodate two different flow tubes sizes. This gives end users the flexibility to handle two different flow ranges by simply exchanging the tube – without having to re-calibrate.
https://us.krohne.com/
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Laboratory Focus May/June 2018 www.laboratoryfocus.ca
app review Manual of Clinical Oncology
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.unbound. android.ubco&hl=en Manual of Clinical Oncology is a practical guide that provides concise information needed in the management of cancer. This popular resource presents basic principles along with diagnosis and treatment options to aid in the decision-making process. Common complications experienced in therapy are covered and make this powerful app a must-have during rounds or at the bedside.
BIO 2018
is just around the corner Many are looking forward to this year’s BIO event being held in its inaugural location in Boston for its 25th anniversary supporting innovation. It is hosted by the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), which represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 nations. Attending the 2018 BIO International Convention can sow a lot of benefits, like access to global biotech and pharma leaders via BIO One-on-One Partnering, exposure to industry leaders with over 500 education sessions at your fingertips, and unparalleled networking opportunities with 16,000+ attendees from 74 countries. It is truly an event to behold! There are a plethora of receptions that are always an attendee favourite. At these receptions attendees will have a chance to meet exhibitors and indulge in an assortment of food, drinks, entertainment and exciting giveaways. Whether your main purpose is to network or listen to a keynote, there are so many fun activities that include this year’s headliner performance from the one and only Diana Ross. It’s an action-packed week, so make sure you plan out your activities and priorities to make the most of your time at BIO. Look forward to seeing you all there!
Chroma Pro
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thermofisher.mobile.android.chromapro&hl=en Chroma PRO is your multi-use tool for process related calculations in chromatography. Calculate the column dimensions, volume and flow rate. Model a chromatography unit operation to understand time, buffer consumption and throughput. Determine your packed column performance by calculating asymmetry factor and plates. Even calculate your buffer concentration and perform common unit conversions and send your all of your final data via email, all from the app! Download now to experience this one of a kind tool from Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Sanger Sequencing
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thermofisher.mobile.android.sangersequencing&hl=en Sanger sequencing android application is from Thermo Fisher Scientific. A handy tool for new or experienced users who perform automated DNA sequencing using capillary electrophoresis. This application’s main feature is a chemistry guide which covers all aspects of sanger sequencing from the basic principles to workflows/ applications. Some of the main features are DNA sequencing by capillary electrophoresis, applied biosystems chemistry guide, DNA template preparation, cycle sequencing, and purification of extension products among many more.
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