<p><strong>Join us for a free two-day LECO Separation Science Workshop on September 23–24, 2026, at the </strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/companies/219"><strong>C³AL Laboratory</strong></a><strong> at Cal State LA. Registration is free, and meals and refreshments will be provided throughout the workshop.&nbsp;</strong></p><h4><strong>Registration</strong></h4><blockquote><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>👉</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=iYeNbqIuykW7qZP4_jUEVbznDB40eK1PgjPzhHyb__9URTFTTFA5UEEzQ1A4MUtFV0o4TEJTNlZCOS4u&amp;route=shorturl"><strong>Register HERE</strong></a></p><p class="cke-user_style-important"><strong>Space is limited, register today!</strong></p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/LECO_LECO_Separation_Science_Workshop_registration_332543a18e.jpg" alt="LECO: LECO Separation Science Workshop - QR code for registration" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_LECO_LECO_Separation_Science_Workshop_registration_332543a18e.jpg 156w," sizes="100vw" width="437" height="437"></p></blockquote><h4><strong>Hand-on Experience with the LECO Complex Chemical Composition Analysis Lab C<sup>3</sup>AL</strong></h4><ul><li>Work directly with LECO instruments in the C<sup>3</sup>AL Laboratory</li><li>Learn complete analytical workflows from sample to answer</li><li>Get expert guidance from LECO application scientists</li><li>Develop methods and solve real-world challenges</li><li>Collaborate, ask questions, and build your skills</li></ul><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Cal_State_LA_The_LECO_Pegasus_BTX_system_in_Cal_State_LA_s_LECO_Complex_Chemical_Compositional_Analysis_Lab_enhances_research_and_student_training_in_advanced_chemical_analysis_cover_b739e727ca.jpg" alt="Cal State LA: The LECO Pegasus BTX system in Cal State LA’s LECO Complex Chemical Compositional Analysis Lab enhances research and student training in advanced chemical analysis" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Cal_State_LA_The_LECO_Pegasus_BTX_system_in_Cal_State_LA_s_LECO_Complex_Chemical_Compositional_Analysis_Lab_enhances_research_and_student_training_in_advanced_chemical_analysis_cover_b739e727ca.jpg 227w," sizes="100vw" width="1252" height="863"></p><p>The first day will focus on the <strong>fundamentals and theory</strong> of comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (<strong>GC×GC</strong>), with an emphasis on understanding how GC×GC can enhance your research, solve complex analytical challenges, and support your laboratory or company goals.&nbsp;</p><p>The second day will be dedicated to <strong>hands-on activities</strong>, giving participants the opportunity to work directly with <strong>LECO instrumentation</strong>, learn <strong>practical analytical workflows</strong>, and <strong>analyze their own samples</strong> with guidance from LECO application scientists.&nbsp;</p><p>Whether you are new to GC×GC or looking to expand its use in your research or organization, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn, explore, and apply the technology in a practical setting. Space is limited, so register early!</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Cal_State_LA_LECO_QUADJET_G_Cx_GC_coupled_to_Pegasus_BT_4_D_TOM_MS_in_the_Complex_Chemical_Composition_Analysis_Lab_C_AL_077a14ae34/Cal-State-LA-LECO-QUADJET-GCxGC-coupled-to-Pegasus-BT-4D-TOM-MS-in-the-Complex-Chemical-Composition-Analysis-Lab-(CAL).jpg" alt="Cal State LA: LECO QUADJET GCxGC coupled to Pegasus BT 4D TOM MS in the Complex Chemical Composition Analysis Lab (C³AL)" srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Cal_State_LA_LECO_QUADJET_G_Cx_GC_coupled_to_Pegasus_BT_4_D_TOM_MS_in_the_Complex_Chemical_Composition_Analysis_Lab_C_AL_077a14ae34/thumbnail_Cal-State-LA-LECO-QUADJET-GCxGC-coupled-to-Pegasus-BT-4D-TOM-MS-in-the-Complex-Chemical-Composition-Analysis-Lab-(CAL).jpg 234w," sizes="100vw" width="1949" height="1299"></p>

LECO Separation Science Workshop

<div><div><section><div><div><div><div><div><div><p><strong>This study introduces a highly sensitive compound-specific isotope analysis method for identifying protein binders in aged paintings. Using direct inlet pyrolysis-GC-combustion-isotope ratio mass spectrometry (DIP-GC-C-IRMS), the method targets δ13C values of pyrolytic diketopiperazines and reduces the required sample size from milligrams to micrograms.</strong></p><p>Reference materials showed that diketopiperazine isotope signatures preserve the distinction between terrestrial and marine collagen sources. Analysis of two 16th-century Italian paintings yielded values consistent with terrestrial animal glue, demonstrating that these isotopic markers can survive aging and degradation and support minimally destructive analysis of cultural heritage objects.</p></div></div></div></div></div><div><blockquote><h4><strong>The original article</strong></h4><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/ancham/article/98/29/21183/5211080/Pyrolysis-Compound-Specific-Isotope-Analysis-of?searchresult=1"><strong>Pyrolysis Compound-Specific Isotope Analysis of Proteins in Aged Paintings: Diketopiperazine δ13C Values as Collagen Source Indicators&nbsp;</strong></a></h4><p>Eugenia Geddes da Filicaia* ; David A. Peggie; Iain P. Kendall; Ian D. Bull; Richard P. Evershed</p><p>Anal. Chem. (2026) 98 (29): 21183–21196.</p><p>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c07901">https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.5c07901</a></p><h6>licensed under <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"><strong>CC-BY 4.0</strong></a></h6></blockquote><p><strong>Selected sections from the article follow. Formats and hyperlinks were adapted from the original.</strong></p><div><div><div><p>The complexities and challenges presented by the analysis of protein paint binders illustrate the need for novel methods of identification for these materials, in particular to distinguish between terrestrial and fish-animal glues. An alternative approach with great potential may be found in the neighboring field of archeology, where collagen in bones and teeth has been used as a palaeodietary indicator since the 1970s. Determination of bulk δ<sup>15</sup>N values may suggest the position of an organism in the respective food web, while δ<sup>13</sup>C values offer insight into their diet. (<a href="javascript:;">27−29</a>) Bulk δ<sup>13</sup>C and δ<sup>15</sup>N values of collagen are weighted averages of the δ<sup>13</sup>C and δ<sup>15</sup>N values of their constituent AAs, which reflect both dietary sources and metabolic processes. Serine, glycine, and alanine (Ser, Gly, and Ala) are part of the glucogenic AA group, which is biosynthesized from intermediates of glycolysis. As pyruvate is the end product of glycolysis, considered the catabolic pathway of carbohydrates, the isotopic signature of these AAs should reflect that of dietary carbohydrates. Aspartic acid and glutamic acid (Asp and Glu), asparagine (Asn), and Pro are part of the ketogenic AA group, originating from intermediates of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. Due to their TCA cycle precursors, the isotopic signature of these AAs should reflect that of the whole diet, if biosynthesized <i>de novo</i>. Finally, Hyp and hydroxylysine cannot be incorporated into proteins from the diet and are formed after the polypeptides are synthesized, during posttranslational processing of collagen. Hydroxylysine is formed from lysine (Lys), whereas Hyp results from hydroxylation of Pro residues. (<a href="javascript:;">30</a>) Moreover, AAs in the “trophic group“ tend to display a large enrichment in <sup>15</sup>N with increasing trophic level, unlike those belonging to the “source group.“</p></div><div><p>Significant limitations therefore surround the interpretation of bulk stable isotope ratios, which, however, may be overcome by compound-specific isotope analysis (CSIA). Individual AA δ<sup>13</sup>C values have proven invaluable for distinguishing terrestrial from marine diets of our ancestors, (<a href="javascript:;">30−35</a>) while AA δ<sup>15</sup>N values are being increasingly used in archeological trophic position studies. (<a href="javascript:;">36−39</a>) Despite the similarity in target material, CSIA has never been extended to the analysis of animal glue, or any other protein, in paintings. Reasons for this are likely linked to the sample sizes required for standard protocols for GC-combustion-isotope ratio MS (GC-C-IRMS), which, however, as illustrated by recent studies, (<a href="javascript:;">40−42</a>) may be significantly reduced by undertaking direct inlet pyrolysis (DIP)-GC-C-IRMS. Here, this technique is applied to the analysis of proteins of paintings, in particular by targeting, for the first time, the stable carbon isotope composition of DKPs, protein pyrolysates. Having confirmed that DKPs reflect the isotopic signature of their constituent AAs, DKP δ<sup>13</sup>C values may be used to distinguish terrestrial from aquatic animal glue in aged paintings.</p><h4><strong>Materials and Methods</strong></h4><h5><strong>Instrumental Analyses</strong></h5><div><p>For elemental analysis (EA)-IRMS, GC-FID, and GC-C-IRMS methods, please see SI1. All chromatograms were replotted in RStudio. DIP-GC-MS was carried out on an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7890A"><strong>Agilent Technologies 7890A GC</strong></a> coupled to an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=5975C"><strong>Agilent Technologies 5975C MSD</strong></a> (Agilent Technologies, Santa Clara, CA, USA), a single quadrupole MS. The GC was equipped with a nonpolar fused-silica capillary column (30 m × 0.25 mm i.d. × 0.25 μm film thickness) with a BPX5 stationary phase (5% phenyl polysilphenylene-siloxane, SGE) and a TSP in the multimode inlet (MMI), operated in splitless mode. The initial TSP temperature was 50 <span>°</span>C, set to rise to 450 <span>°</span>C (900 <span>°</span>C min<sup>–1</sup>, 3 min isothermal hold), before cooling to 250 <span>°</span>C (25 <span>°</span>C min<sup>–1</sup>, 40 min isothermal hold). The oven temperature began at 40 <span>°</span>C, was increased to 200 <span>°</span>C (10 <span>°</span>C min<sup>–1</sup>), and then to 310 <span>°</span>C (6 <span>°</span>C min<sup>–1</sup>) with a final hold time of 20 min. He was used as a carrier gas at a constant flow (1.2 mL min<sup>–1</sup>).</p></div><div><p>The MS was set to acquire in full scan mode (<i>m</i>/<i>z</i> 50–650) at 0.2 scan s<sup>–1</sup>, and was operated at an EI potential of 70 eV with a solvent delay of 6.5 min. The MS transfer line temperature was set to 280 <span>°</span>C, the ion source temperature to 230 <span>°</span>C, and the quadrupole to 150 <span>°</span>C. Data acquisition was undertaken using Agilent Technologies Chemstation, and data processing with Agilent Technologies MassHunter software (version 10.0) and the AMDIS deconvolution software (NIST, version 2.66). Peaks were identified using a combination of mass spectral information, GC retention times (RTs), and comparison to the NIST mass spectral library (Mass Spectral Search Program version 2.0 and NIST 08 MS Library), published data sets, and NG databases. An <i>n</i>-alkane “ladder“ (with a characteristic bell-shaped peak profile) standard, containing C<sub>7</sub>–C<sub>40</sub> saturated alkanes (0.01 mg mL<sup>–1</sup> in <i>n</i>-hexane), was used to monitor instrument performance.</p></div><div><p>DIP-GC-QTOF-MS analysis was carried out on an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7890B"><strong>Agilent Technologies 7890B GC</strong></a> coupled to an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=7200"><strong>Agilent Technologies 7200 Accurate Mass QTOF MS</strong></a> (Agilent Technologies, Santa Clara, CA, USA). The same method was used, except that the MMI was held at 450 <span>°</span>C for 1 min only. The MS was set with an acquisition rate of 5 spectra s<sup>–1</sup>, an acquisition time of 200 ms spectrum<sup>–1</sup>, and an emission current of 2.1 μA. DIP-GC-C-IRMS analysis was carried out on an <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/library?mainauthorItems=10&amp;search=8890"><strong>Agilent Technologies 8890 GC</strong></a> coupled to an <strong>Elementar isoprime precisION IRMS</strong> via an Elementar GC5 combustion interface, using a combustion reactor containing CuO pellets and Ag wool (Elementar Analysensysteme GmbH, Hanau, Germany), maintained at 850 <span>°</span>C. The GC parameters were identical to those for DIP-GC-MS, except that the MMI, after being held at 450 <span>°</span>C for 3 min, was cooled to 300 <span>°</span>C (900 <span>°</span>C min<sup>–1</sup>, isothermal hold for 50 min). Additionally, the oven program was typically shortened by setting a lower maximum temperature (280 <span>°</span>C instead of 310 <span>°</span>C), where it was held for 10 min. He was used as a carrier gas at a constant flow (2 mL min<sup>–1</sup>).</p></div></div></div></div></div></div></section></div></div><h4><strong>Results and Discussion</strong></h4><h5><strong>Pyrolytic Marker Identification from DIP-GC-MS of Protein References</strong></h5><div><p>The thermal degradation of intact proteins has been shown to be a multistep reaction, (<a href="javascript:;">45</a>) where the formation of DKPs, occurring in the first degradation step (<i>T</i><sub>max</sub> = 325 <span>°</span>C), does not require high Py temperatures. (<a href="javascript:;">21</a>) Protein markers may therefore be detected through DIP-GC-MS, as testified by the analysis of a soapstone fragment from Qarmaaluit (18th–19th century CE). (<a href="javascript:;">46</a>) Nonetheless, given that this technique is not widely reported in the literature, modern protein references were analyzed by DIP-GC-MS, and pyrolytic profiles obtained were compared to published Py-GC-MS data. Studies have been undertaken with (<a href="javascript:;">22, 47, 48</a>) and without (<a href="javascript:;">22, 26</a>) TMAH, hence, both methods were carried out here. Results were scrutinized, in particular, to identify pyrolytic markers suitable for DIP-GC-C-IRMS analysis. Egg yolk, which presents a similar AA composition as egg white, was not examined, as its high fat content was deemed to interfere with the analysis.</p></div><div><p>In general, DIP-GC-MS analyses involving derivatization with TMAH, in particular for animal glues, featured many more compounds compared to the total ion chromatograms (TICs) obtained without derivatization (see <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/ancham/article-supplement/5211080/pdf/ac5c07901_si_001/">Figure S1</a> for G1, aged gelatin spread). In this case, GC-MS TICs exhibited better baseline separation with the most abundant peaks corresponding to the targeted DKPs. Further analysis of glue samples was therefore carried out without derivatization, as good baseline resolution is central to reliable compound-specific stable isotope determinations. (<a href="javascript:;">43</a>) Analysis of rabbit skin glues (GRS1 and GRS2) and isinglass glues (GI1 and GI2) yielded GC-MS TICs identical to each other. In accordance with the literature, (<a href="javascript:;">21, 22, 49</a>) as illustrated in <a href="javascript:;">Figure 1</a>a, they are dominated by peaks corresponding to diketodipyrrole (peak 8) and cyclo(Pro-Gly) (peak 10). Because of its relatively high polarity, or overloading, the latter produces a broad (fronting) peak. (<a href="javascript:;">50</a>)</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Anal_Chem_2026_98_29_21183_21196_Figure_1_Partial_DIP_GC_QTOF_MS_total_ion_chromatograms_TI_Cs_for_a_isinglass_GI_2_b_casein_C1_and_c_egg_white_EW_1_f4442d8498.jpg" alt="Anal. Chem. (2026) 98 (29): 21183–21196: Figure 1. Partial DIP-GC-QTOF-MS total ion chromatograms (TICs) for (a) isinglass, GI2, (b) casein, C1, and (c) egg white, EW1. Information on relevant DKPs (in purple) and other peaks (in pink) is listed in Table S1." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Anal_Chem_2026_98_29_21183_21196_Figure_1_Partial_DIP_GC_QTOF_MS_total_ion_chromatograms_TI_Cs_for_a_isinglass_GI_2_b_casein_C1_and_c_egg_white_EW_1_f4442d8498.jpg 127w," sizes="100vw" width="1500" height="1840"></p></div><h5><strong>DIP-GC-C-IRMS for Source Determination of Proteins in Paintings from The National Gallery</strong></h5><div><p>Ground layer samples from two Italian Renaissance paintings in the National Gallery collection, NG599 (Madonna of the Meadows) and NG6368 (Tanaquil), were analyzed by GC by White in the 1980s. (<a href="javascript:;">15</a>) The author reported AA profiles consistent with the presence of animal glues, which, for this purpose, would be expected to be of terrestrial origin. However, given the low proportion of Pro and Hyp in NG6368, White discussed a possible aquatic origin for this glue. Analysis was repeated with the aforementioned DIP techniques, revealing very similar profiles to those of the reference animal glues (<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://pubs.acs.org/ancham/article-supplement/5211080/pdf/ac5c07901_si_001/">Figure S6</a>). The protein binder in the ground layers of both paintings exhibited similar DKP stable carbon isotope signatures. In particular, δ<sup>13</sup>C<sub>Pro-Gly</sub> values were determined to be −18.4‰ (±0.1) and −17.6‰ (±0.1) for NG599 and NG6368, respectively. The δ<sup>13</sup>C<sub>Pro-Hyp</sub> values were found to equal −19.8‰ (±0.4) and −18.6‰ (±0.001), respectively.</p></div><div><p>It should be noted that the SD observed for these determinations is lower than what was reported for some of the reference binders discussed above. These errors are in line with those observed for standard GC-C-IRMS methods. As these paint fragments were in the form of very fine powder, typical of paint samples, these results support that sample inhomogeneities might be primarily responsible for wide SDs, rather than the DIP-GC-C-IRMS method itself. In the case of marine animal glues, more enriched δ<sup>13</sup>C<sub>DKP</sub> values would be expected than those observed here, especially for cyclo(Pro-Gly). Instead, the determined δ<sup>13</sup>C<sub>DKP</sub> values suggest a terrestrial origin for the glues in both paintings. Indeed, by plotting the values as described above, as shown in <a href="javascript:;">Figure 7</a>, both paintings fall extremely close to the reference rabbit skin glues. Hence, for NG599, these results are in agreement with the previous analysis by White (1984). However, regarding the origin of the binder from NG6368, these findings support a similar terrestrial origin, suggesting that a lower-than-average concentration of Pro and Hyp is not characteristic of fish glues.</p><p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Anal_Chem_2026_98_29_21183_21196_Figure_7_a_d13_C_Pro_Gly_values_for_the_ground_layers_from_paintings_NG_599_purple_star_and_NG_6368_pink_star_bb585e6957.jpg" alt="Anal. Chem. (2026) 98 (29): 21183–21196: Figure 7. (a) δ13CPro-Gly values for the ground layers from paintings NG599 (purple star) and NG6368 (pink star), against their δ13CPro-Hyp values. Modern references for marine (GI1 and GI2) and terrestrial (GRS1 and GRS2) animal glues are in gray. (b) Corresponding Δ13C(Pro-Gly)–(Pro-Hyp) values against their δ13CPro-Gly values. The error bars represent the SD on either side (±) of the value. The δ13C values have been corrected to take into account post-Industrial Revolution effects of burning fossil fuels by the addition of 1.2‰. (68) Instrumental precision was 0.3‰." srcset="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/thumbnail_Anal_Chem_2026_98_29_21183_21196_Figure_7_a_d13_C_Pro_Gly_values_for_the_ground_layers_from_paintings_NG_599_purple_star_and_NG_6368_pink_star_bb585e6957.jpg 72w," sizes="100vw" width="625" height="1349"></p><p>Although a wider range of reference material needs to be analyzed before this method may be reliably used, these results indicate that DIP-GC-C-IRMS is able to differentiate between terrestrial and marine animal glues in painting samples. Given the challenges currently faced by this field to differentiate fish glues from other animal glues, this innovative technique might enable new information to be gathered on artist techniques and the history of use of these materials. It is important to note that the method can be applied to many other fields of research. In addition to painting analysis, this minimally invasive protocol is pertinent to any discipline that involves the analysis of degraded proteins, heterogeneous and complex matrices, or where access to samples is restricted due to ethical implications or lack of material. This includes environmental and forensic sciences, paleo- and zooarcheology, paleoecology, and anthropology.</p></div><h4><strong>Conclusions</strong></h4><div><p>Aged proteins encountered in painted cultural heritage have usually undergone extreme structural changes from the freshly applied material, often rendering unambiguous protein source determination unattainable. In particular, the distinction between terrestrial and aquatic animal glues is typically not possible without proteomics approaches. Nonetheless, this paper demonstrates that, with minimal sample sizes, DIP-GC-C-IRMS permits determination of δ<sup>13</sup>C values of DKPs arising from pyrolysis of aged proteinaceous material, providing the first record of the isotopic signature of these compounds. In this study, δ<sup>13</sup>C values of DKPs were shown to reflect the δ<sup>13</sup>C values of the parent AAs and, therefore, to permit unambiguous differentiation between terrestrial and marine animal glues, analogous to the use of CSIA of archeological collagen for palaeodietary reconstruction.</p></div><div><p>Remarkably, DIP-GC-C-IRMS, requiring a considerably smaller sample (in the microgram range) than typical GC-C-IRMS methods (in the milligram range), renders CSIA accessible for the investigation of proteinaceous material in painted cultural heritage for the first time. This widens the application of CSIA to precious, unique, and fragile objects in cultural heritage and beyond. Moreover, the rapidity of the analysis places DIP-GC-C-IRMS as a useful screening method to identify materials of interest for further proteomic analyses.</p></div><div><p>First, the isotopic imprint of modern references for rabbit skin glues, isinglass glues, casein, chicken, and duck eggs was confirmed through established EA-IRMS and GC-C-IRMS methods. As expected, bulk and individual AA δ<sup>13</sup>C and δ<sup>15</sup>N values for terrestrial animal glues exhibited a higher depletion in <sup>13</sup>C and <sup>15</sup>N than the marine glues. The δ<sup>13</sup>C values of DKPs arising from DIP-GC-C-IRMS of the same materials were found to retain this relationship. Furthermore, the ground layers of two 16th-century Italian paintings from the National Gallery collection, known to contain animal glue, yielded δ<sup>13</sup>C<sub>DKP</sub> values consistent with the terrestrial variety, confirming that the isotopic signature of these compounds is retained through aging and degradation.</p></div>

Pyrolysis Compound-Specific Isotope Analysis of Proteins in Aged Paintings: Diketopiperazine δ13C Values as Collagen Source Indicators

<p><strong>In the week of August 17, the following webinars await you in the field of gas / solid phase and especially Raman, FTIR, GC and GC/MS.</strong></p><blockquote><h4><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinars"><strong>👉 DETAILS AND REGISTRATION IN THE WEBINARS SECTION</strong></a></h4><p><strong>👉 Search and filter in the largest global database</strong> with over <strong>5 500 GC, LC, MS and spectroscopy webinars</strong>.</p></blockquote><h5><strong>1. LECO: Breathomics: Advancing Personalized Medicine Through Next-Generation Analytical Solutions</strong></h5><ul><li>We, 19.8.2026 14:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6407">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Advance personalized medicine with breathomics. Learn how GCxGC-MS profiling of VOCs drives non-invasive biomarker discovery.</p><h5><strong>2. Thermo Fisher Scientific: Future-Proofing Emerging Contaminants in Food Analysis</strong></h5><ul><li>Th, 20.8.2026 08:00 CEST</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://gcms.labrulez.com/webinar/6445">Registration</a></li></ul><p>Prepare your laboratory for evolving PFAS regulations in food contact materials and seafood. Discover advanced HRMS data workflows and join a live panel discussion with industry experts.</p>

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<h3><strong>Process, analyze and report your LC-MS and GC-MS data from your different instruments</strong></h3>
<p>Mnova MSChrom (Formerly MS) provides a common interface for different vendor data and automates all functionality such as data importing and display, integration, background subtraction, display of extracted mass chromatograms, molecule match, enumeration of molecular formulae, etc.</p>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mnova_MS_Chrom_Effortlessly_analyze_and_report_LCMS_and_GCMS_data_from_a_wide_range_of_instruments_b7f5482cde.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Mnova MSChrom - Effortlessly analyze and report LCMS and GCMS data from a wide range of instruments."/></p>
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<h3><strong>MSChrom Highlights</strong></h3>
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<li><strong>Calculate MS peak purity.</strong> The Mnova MS peak purity shows the curves associated to the most abundant mass peaks under the selected chromatogram peak.</li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mnova_MS_Chrom_Opens_the_power_of_the_technique_to_all_non_expert_users_9ccef334fa.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Mnova MSChrom - Opens the power of the technique to all non-expert users."/></p>
<h3><strong>Mnova MSChrom Features</strong></h3>
<h4><strong>Background Subtraction</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li>This new feature is designed to facilitate background subtraction in your datasets, offering the capability to apply mass spectra and UV subtraction to lower impurities and noisy common peaks obtained from your analytical system, etc. to achieve more precise data analysis.</li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mnova_MS_Chrom_Sample_2_and_blank_1_used_to_apply_MS_Background_Subtraction_and_the_result_3_6a554048a8.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Mnova MSChrom - Sample, 2, and blank, 1, used to apply MS Background Subtraction and the result, 3."/></p>
<h4><strong>New Enhanced Peak Picking Algorithm and Blind Regions</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li><p>Now, MSChrom includes a new <strong>Enhanced Peak Picking Algorithm</strong> providing an alternative to the Classic algorithm used in previous versions of MSChrom. Within <strong>Enhanced</strong> peak picking algorithm new settings are available to reproduce your best results in terms of detection and integration, including Baseline Correction, smoothing features, and a new functionality based on Saturated levels, where users can set an abundance threshold to identify those overloaded peaks due to detector saturation, and perform corrections on them.</p>
</li>
<li><p>Introducing the new <strong>Blind Regions</strong> tool-a highly beneficial addition. This tool enables the selective exclusion of those undesired regions from chromatograms during analytical processes as peak picking or any general data treatment. Blind Regions will remain ignored saving time, resources, providing better reproducible results. It proves especially helpful in cases where challenges arise in specific regions (solvent front in LC, column bleeding in GC, etc.) or, for instance, when opting to discard the limits of the chromatogram.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mnova_MS_Chrom_Chromatographic_Peak_Detection_Settings_panel_and_Blind_Regions_table_displayed_after_peak_picking_9f4b2b6def.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Mnova MSChrom - Chromatographic Peak Detection Settings panel and Blind Regions table displayed after peak picking process and applying two blind regions on the chromatogram."/></p>
<h4><strong>Combine NMR and LC-MS or GC-MS Data in the Same Document</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li>Automatically open analytical data from instruments like Agilent, Bruker, JEOL, Thermo, and Waters, along with data in mzData or mzXML formats (<a href="http://www2.mestrelab.com/l/271522/2024-04-10/3p2gs6"><strong>refer to supported formats here</strong></a>).</li>
<li>Integrate peaks in TIC, MS, and UV/ELSD traces, either automatically or manually.</li>
<li>Choose mass spectra based on TIC peaks, with or without background subtraction, and display them in either centroid or profile mode.</li>
<li>Manually co-add mass spectra, and seamlessly analyze and report NMR and MS data together in the same document</li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mnova_MS_Chrom_Combine_NMR_and_LC_MS_or_GC_MS_Data_in_the_Same_Document_a575d33699.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Mnova MSChrom - Combine NMR and LC-MS or GC-MS Data in the Same Document."/></p>
<h4><strong>Effortlessly Generate EMC/EIC, UV Traces, and UV Spectra</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li>Create Extracted Mass/Ion Chromatograms (EMC/EIC) within a specified mass range or at a particular m/z value.</li>
<li>Generate UV Traces effortlessly by selecting a wavelength from a DAD trace.</li>
<li>Easily extract UV spectra at chosen retention times from a PDA total absorbance chromatogram.</li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mnova_MS_Chrom_Effortlessly_Generate_EMC_EIC_UV_Traces_and_UV_Spectra_e80492edfa.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Mnova MSChrom - Effortlessly Generate EMC/EIC, UV Traces, and UV Spectra."/></p>
<h4><strong>Automatic Molecule Matching for Structure Confirmation</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li>Beyond its extensive NMR structure confirmation tools within the NMR plugin, Mnova MSChrom introduces the molecular match feature, an invaluable resource for verifying structures through LC/GC/MS analysis.</li>
<li>This functionality is exceptionally swift and user-friendly, ensuring accessibility for all users, including those new to the field.</li>
<li>Import chemical structures and let the software automatically confirm matches with your experimental data. Customize match criteria by selecting adducts, losses, mass accuracy, score thresholds, etc.</li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mnova_MS_Chrom_Automatic_Molecule_Matching_for_Structure_Confirmation_04d66572d1.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Mnova MSChrom - Automatic Molecule Matching for Structure Confirmation."/></p>
<h4><strong>Isotope Cluster Prediction for Elemental Composition Verification</strong></h4>
<ul>
<li>The feature enables users to propose one or multiple molecular formulas and anticipate their mass peaks using a predefined list of adducts or losses.</li>
<li>Mnova MSChrom generates a list of molecular ion and isotopic peaks, automatically aligning them with experimental peaks, if present.</li>
<li>Customize the display by choosing the desired prediction, along with the corresponding adduct or loss, for comparison on the spectrum.</li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mnova_MS_Chrom_Isotope_Cluster_Prediction_for_Elemental_Composition_Verification_7f75f9d6c3.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Mnova MSChrom - Isotope Cluster Prediction for Elemental Composition Verification."/></p>
<h3><strong>Mnova MSChrom Market and Users</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Teaching MS and Chromatography to chemistry departments</li>
<li>Research in organic, medicinal and environmental chemistry</li>
<li>Quality control in chemical and pharmaceutical companies</li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mnova_MS_Chrom_users_507a260da1.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Mnova MSChrom users."/></p>
<h3><strong>Frequently Asked Questions</strong></h3>
<h5><strong>How can I know if my data is compatible with Mnova?</strong></h5>
<p><em>Mnova MS supports most of the different MSChrom data formats. You can check it on the MSChrom supported format table <a href="http://www2.mestrelab.com/l/271522/2024-04-10/3p2gs6"><strong>here</strong></a>. Please let us know if your MSChrom data format is not in the list.</em></p>
<h5><strong>How much does the MSChrom module cost?</strong></h5>
<p><em>You can find the cost of this module in our online store. You can also check out for any combo option if you have or you need Mnova NMR. For any questions about pricing you can always contact us directly at <strong>sales@mestrelab.com</strong></em></p>
<h5><strong>I have Mnova NMR and I am wondering if I could add my MS data to my NMR reports.</strong></h5>
<p><em>Yes. You can open NMR and MS data in the same document, and cut/paste the MSChrom display to the same page of NMR data if needed. Or you can create a display template to automatically format the reports.</em></p>
<h5><strong>Can I use my MSChrom data for verification purposes?</strong></h5>
<p><em>Yes. Run Molecule Match in Mnova MSChrom to verify the elemental composition automatically, or run Mnova Verify to verify a proposed structure against your MS data (Mnova Verify needs a separate license).</em></p>
<h5><strong>Can I use it to process my High Resolution MSChrom data?</strong></h5>
<p><em>Yes. Both high resolution and low resolution MS data can be used by Mnova MSChrom. Just make sure you set the proper mass tolerance parameters when you do Molecular Match.</em></p>
<h5><strong>Can I try Mnova MSChrom?</strong></h5>
<p><em>Yes, you can download a 45-day trial license of any of our products. The Mnova MSChrom module is included within the main Mnova installer. Download Mnova and try it now!</em></p>
<h3><strong>Case Studies</strong></h3>
<h4><strong>Automated analysis and reporting LC/MS and NMR together for compound registration – A case study</strong></h4>
<p>A pharma company does quality control of their compounds using both NMR and LC/MS before registration, and generates the analysis reports in their own format. Based on their requirement, we developed a Mnova script (R_NMR_MS.qs) that does all of this automatically.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><a href="http://www2.mestrelab.com/l/271522/2024-04-10/3p2gs9"><strong>read more</strong></a></p>
</blockquote>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mnova_MS_Chrom_Automated_analysis_and_reporting_LC_MS_and_NMR_together_for_compound_registration_A_case_study_8003aab1ff.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Mnova MSChrom - Automated analysis and reporting LC-MS and NMR together for compound registration – A case study."/></p>


Mestrelab Mnova Gears – Chrom Best Method software

Chrom Best Method is a vendor agnostic tool that can seamlessly screen and compare several chromatographic methods, then suggest the one that is more likely to yield a pure compound.

<h3><strong>Automated solution for selection of the optimal separation method</strong></h3>
<p>Data processing and comparison between different chromatographic methods can quickly form a bottleneck when large amounts of data is generated, particularly when multiple different instruments are involved.</p>
<p><strong>Chrom Best Method</strong> is a vendor-agnostic tool that can seamlessly <strong>screen and compare several chromatographic methods</strong>, then suggest the one that is more likely to yield a pure compound. Chrom Best Method <strong>automates LC-MS data processing</strong>, <strong>target and impurity identification</strong>, <strong>method scoring</strong>, and <strong>report generation</strong>, to provide quick, smart, and robust answers, whilst still allowing for full review and overriding of results to accommodate users’ needs.</p>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mestrelab_Mnova_Gears_Chrom_Best_Method_software_Find_the_best_separation_conditions_for_your_compounds_with_Chrom_Best_Method_7d0d3f9805.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Save time and money – find the best separation conditions for your compounds with Chrom Best Method!"/></p>
<blockquote>
<h3><a href="http://www2.mestrelab.com/l/271522/2024-03-25/3nwskj"><strong>Visit MestreLab Research Mnova Gears – Chrom Best Method product page to learn more!</strong></a></h3>
</blockquote>
<h3><strong>Chrom Best Method Benefits</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Effective, <strong>vendor-neutral analysis and comparison of your LC-MS data from different instruments</strong> in one software package.</li>
<li>Seamless <strong>evaluation of several methods</strong> for many targets in a single run, which accommodates <strong>HT experimentation</strong>.</li>
<li>Meaningful <strong>method scores</strong> based on your criteria, preferences, and operational requirements.</li>
<li>Substantial <strong>reduction in the time spent</strong> on manual analysis and creation of reports.</li>
<li>Effective <strong>result visualization and interpretation</strong>, enabling quick and confident decision making.</li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mestrelab_Mnova_Gears_Chrom_Best_Method_software_2_8cff8a724b.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Mestrelab Mnova Gears – Chrom Best Method software"/></p>
<h3><strong>Chrom Best Method Features</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Automated data preparation, analysis, and reporting of results</strong></li>
<li>Comprehensive <strong>method scoring</strong> that generates meaningful results</li>
<li>Powerful target <strong>peak assignment options</strong> and <strong>detection of impurities</strong></li>
<li><strong>Multiple ways to provide target information</strong> (using a structure, dataset file name, mapping file, or parameters)</li>
<li><strong>Flexible ion matching and analysis options</strong> that fit multiple-use cases</li>
<li>Optimized <strong>algorithm for chiral screening</strong></li>
<li>Possibility to <strong>screen methods on different targets in a single run</strong></li>
<li><strong>Manual review</strong> by exception of scoring and <strong>ability to override results</strong></li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mestrelab_Mnova_Gears_Chrom_Best_Method_software_ccc0c0e0ad.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Mestrelab Mnova Gears – Chrom Best Method software."/></p>
<h3><strong>Purification Workflow</strong></h3>
<h4><strong>More Automation</strong></h4>
<p>Looking for an enterprise-level solution for improving your purification and data management procedures? Check the <a href="http://www2.mestrelab.com/l/271522/2024-03-25/3nwskm"><strong>Fraction Analysis</strong></a> and <a href="http://www2.mestrelab.com/l/271522/2024-03-25/3nwskq"><strong>Quality Control</strong></a> bricks that also run in full automation with Mgears. You have the complete flexibility to combine and adapt these solutions to your standard procedures to reap even more benefits to your organization.</p>
<p><a href="http://www2.mestrelab.com/l/271522/2024-04-10/3p2gsh"><strong>Contact us</strong></a> for more information.</p>
<p><img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/labrulez-bucket-strapi-h3hsga3/Mestrelab_Research_Mestrelab_Mnova_Gears_Chrom_Best_Method_software_4_f25f63daa7.jpg" alt="Mestrelab Research: Mestrelab Mnova Gears – Chrom Best Method software"/></p>
<h3><strong>Markets</strong></h3>
<p>Academic, Government &amp; Industrial</p>
<h4><strong>Who should be using Chrom Best Method?</strong></h4>
<p>Organic chemists, analysts, QC experts, and researchers using quantitative chromatographic methods for quality control, concentration/purity determination, or monitoring/optimization of reactions in one of the following markets and applications:</p>
<ul>
<li><p>Pharmaceutical / Drug development industry</p>
</li>
<li><p>Food &amp; Beverage industries</p>
</li>
<li><p>Personal care and Cosmetics</p>
</li>
<li><p>Fine chemical synthesis industries</p>
</li>
<li><p>Polymer industries</p>
</li>
<li><p>Academic research laboratories</p>
</li>
<li><p>Contract Research Organizations (CROs) offering purification services</p>
</li>
<li><p>Compound purification for subsequent use in studies or commercialization</p>
</li>
<li><p>Isolation of unknown impurities in finished products, natural products, or in the environment for structural disclosure, study, etc.</p>
</li>
<li><p>Chiral separation to remove unwanted enantiomers obtained during organic synthesis</p>
</li>
</ul>


Products focused on GC/MSD distributed by SciY/Mestrelab Research - page 1

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