Award Sessions: Monday, March 28
Presented Monday, March 28 ◉ 1:00 pm EST
The LCGC Emerging Leader in Chromatography Award
Awardee: James P. Grinias, Rowan University
Introduction: Laura Bush
Recent Developments in Capillary LC Column Technology
Improving the performance of capillary LC columns plays a critical role in various ‘omic studies, as higher chromatographic efficiency can increase the number of positive compound identifications when analyzing complex biological samples by LC-MS. To increase this efficiency, fundamental investigations into the packing process of capillary LC columns have shown the importance of radial homogeneity within the random packed bed. High particle slurry concentrations can be used to help ensure this homogeneity during column packing. A desired goal is to use these capillary-scale columns in integrated separation platforms, which are often designed using microfabrication. However, achieving radial homogeneity in beds packed in microfluidic channels becomes more challenging as the channel cross-section is rarely circular due to difficulties in fabrication. As an alternative, specialized fittings can be used to connect traditional, fused silica capillary columns to instrument components in a compact, integrated system. With this new platform, a variety of applications have been explored, with both on-capillary absorbance and compact mass spectrometric detectors.
The LCGC Lifetime Achievement Award in Chromatography
Awardee: Barry L. Karger, Northeastern University
Introduction: Laura Bush
A Perspective on Separations and Analysis in the Life Sciences
The modern era of chromatography began 60 years ago with the introduction of gas chromatographic instrumentation. Since that time there has been major advances in all forms of chromatography, as well as electrophoresis. The impact of the separation science field has been enormous in the biological and chemical sciences. Since my career has spanned these 60 years, I will describe some of the advances that has led to where we are today. The progress in column technology, the emergence of the biotechnology industry, the success of the Human Genome Project, the wide adoption of LC-MS, and the use of microfluidics are among the advances we have seen. I will then turn to an examination of the current state, with a focus on LC/CE-MS and its broad application in the life sciences. The complexity of the molecules and sample matrices place great demands on separation prior to MS analysis. Advances in high resolution ion mobility, high mass analysis, and high sensitivity have and will have an impact on the front-end separation. Nevertheless, new and challenging applications, including viral and lipid nanoparticle vectors for RNA and DNA delivery, RNA therapeutics, and single cell analysis, among others, will continue to require on-line separations. I will describe several of these new areas and suggest potential future directions. I will conclude by presenting what I see as key points to a successful career in the field of analytical chemistry, which I hope will be useful to the next generation.
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