New platform sharpens analysis of complex samples

The platform couples field-flow fractionation (FFF) to multi-angle light scattering (MALS) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). FFF separates particles and biomolecular assemblies in an open channel without a stationary phase, which keeps unwanted interactions during analysis to a minimum. The combined detectors then measure size, structure and distribution across a very broad size range.

That matters because many real samples are not single molecules or uniform materials. Lipid nanoparticles for RNA therapeutics, protein drugs, advanced foods and nanoplastics consist of dynamic populations of particles and aggregates. Their stability, efficacy and environmental impact depend on how those populations behave, not on one average value.

“With this system we can study complex samples much closer to how they exist in reality. That is the question behind all of our work: does what we measure truly reflect the real system?” says Alina Astefanei, assistant professor in analytical science at HIMS.

HIMS has a long track record in the field. Fundamental work by Dr Wim Kok and colleagues contributed to FFF technology that is now used widely in the biopharmaceutical industry. With the new platform in its own laboratory, the institute can continue developing the method while applying it to new research questions.

Shared infrastructure for research and industry

The platform is a key asset of the Dutch FFF Facility and Expertise Hub, which Astefanei leads together with researchers at Utrecht University. The Hub connects researchers, companies and public organisations through joint projects, interlaboratory studies, shared infrastructure, method development and training for students, PhD candidates, postdocs and industrial users. HIMS aims to become a national reference centre for advanced particle and biomolecular characterisation.

For the biopharmaceutical sector, the system can characterise protein therapeutics, antibody aggregates, viral vectors and lipid nanoparticles. Other applications include food science, sustainable materials and environmental research on microplastics and nanoplastics. The system also provides experimental validation for computational work on biomolecular self-assembly and soft matter. The partnership with Waters | Wyatt includes vendor support, training and a longer-term strategic relationship.

“Companies that want to understand their products at this level of detail are welcome to work with us. The platform also keeps us competitive with the best facilities internationally,” says Astefanei.

Source: Van ’t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam (hims.uva.nl)