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News U2

News U2

NANBIOSIS researchers contribute to the 2nd CSIC Rare Diseases Network Meeting in Madrid

NANBIOSIS researchers join the 2nd CSIC Rare Diseases Network Meeting in Madrid, strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration in rare disease research.

Madrid, February 2026 — Several researchers from NANBIOSIS and CIBER-BBN based at the IQAC-CSIC took part in the 2nd Meeting of the CSIC Rare Diseases Network, held in Madrid. The event brought together scientists, legal experts, patients, sociologists, and other key stakeholders to address rare diseases from a truly interdisciplinary perspective.

Among the participants were Miriam Royo, Scientific Director of Unit 3, Lluïsa Villaplana, researcher from Unit 2 and Ibane Abasolo, Strategy Advisor of NANBIOSIS. Their participation highlights the strong commitment within NANBIOSIS towards collaborative biomedical research and to advancing knowledge in rare diseases through cutting-edge infrastructures.

Interdisciplinary collaboration for Rare Diseases

Rare diseases affect millions of people worldwide, yet many remain underdiagnosed and lack effective treatments. The CSIC Rare Diseases Network meeting provided an enriching forum to exchange experiences not only among researchers, but also with professionals from the legal and social sciences, as well as patient representatives.

This multidisciplinary dialogue is essential to address the scientific, regulatory, and societal challenges associated with rare disease research, from biomarker discovery to preclinical validation and translational development.

NANBIOSIS Units supporting Rare Disease research

The participation of NANBIOSIS researchers reflects the strategic role of its Units in supporting high-impact biomedical research

Unit 3 – Synthesis of Peptides Unit

Unit 3, coordinated by the Multivalent Systems for Nanomedicine group at IQAC-CSIC, offers advanced services in peptide synthesis (from milligrams to grams), purification, characterization, and post-synthesis modifications, including conjugation to proteins and fluorescent labels.

With extensive expertise in biologically active peptide design and in their incorporation into therapeutic nanoconjugates, Unit 3 supports the development of innovative strategies for targeted therapies—an essential area for many rare diseases with limited treatment options.

Unit 2 – Custom Antibody Service (CAbS)

Unit 2 at IQAC-CSIC is equipped for the development and production of monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies, including hybridoma generation, antibody purification, immunoassays, and bioconjugate synthesis. The Unit operates under ISO9001 certification, ensuring standardized quality control procedures.

Its capabilities in antibody production and immunoreagent development are highly relevant for rare disease research, particularly in biomarker validation, diagnostic assay development, and targeted therapeutic approaches.

By participating in the 2nd CSIC Rare Diseases Network Meeting, NANBIOSIS researchers reinforce the infrastructure’s role as a key enabler of collaborative, translational, and interdisciplinary research in rare diseases—helping bridge the gap between fundamental science and clinical application.

What is NANBIOSIS?

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

If you want to collaborate with us, visit our Order Request page.

Leading scientists

The main value of NANBIOSIS is our highly qualified and experienced academic scientists, working in public institutions, renowned universities and other research institutes.

Custom solutions

Designed for either scientific collaboration or the private industry, we adapt our services to your needs, filling the gaps and paving the way towards the next breakthrough.

Cutting-Edge facilities

Publicly funded, with the most advanced equipment, offering a wide variety of services from synthesis of nanoparticles and medical devices, including up to preclinical trials.

Standards of quality

Our services have standards of quality required in the pharmaceutical, biotech and medtech sectors, from Good Practices to ISO certifications.

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

NANBIOSIS Unit 2 (CAbS) at the III SENTIATECH Meeting on Science, Technology & Health Risk Monitoring

NANBIOSIS Unit 2 (CAbS) participates in the III SENTIATECH Meeting, showcasing nanobiotechnology and diagnostics for health risk monitoring.

NANBIOSIS is actively represented at the III SENTIATECH Meeting | Science, Technology & Health Risk Monitoring through the Nb4D research group, in which NANBIOSIS Unit 2 “CAbS” is integrated. This third edition of the SENTIATECH Meeting focuses on presenting the SENTIATECH platform and strengthening collaboration between research centers and industry to tackle current and emerging challenges in defense and chemical–biological risk management.

During the meeting, Dr. J. Pablo Salvador, Tenured Scientist and member of the Nb4D group, is coordinating Working Group 4 (WG4), dedicated to the monitoring and diagnosis of health-related risks. This working group addresses key scientific and technological strategies for early detection, surveillance, and response to threats affecting human health.

In parallel, the Nb4D group has a dedicated exhibition space at the event, where it is presenting its research and technological capabilities in nanobiotechnology, diagnostics, and antibody-based solutions. As experts in immunoassay development, the group showcases advanced tools for the detection of pathogens, toxins, chemical contaminants, and other threatening substances, reinforcing the relevance of NANBIOSIS infrastructures in high-impact risk scenarios.

The SENTIATECH Meeting brings together stakeholders from academia, research institutions, and industry with the shared objective of:

  • Presenting technological solutions for defense and chemical–biological risk scenarios
  • Fostering collaborative synergies between science and industry
  • Defining a strategic agenda to address emerging and future risks effectively

Participation in this forum highlights the commitment of NANBIOSIS and its units to technology transfer, innovation, and the application of cutting-edge science to protect human health and security.

What is NANBIOSIS?

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

If you want to collaborate with us, visit our Open Call page.

Leading scientists

The main value of NANBIOSIS is our highly qualified and experienced academic scientists, working in public institutions, renowned universities and other research institutes.

Custom solutions

Designed for either scientific collaboration or the private industry, we adapt our services to your needs, filling the gaps and paving the way towards the next breakthrough.

Cutting-Edge facilities

Publicly funded, with the most advanced equipment, offering a wide variety of services from synthesis of nanoparticles and medical devices, including up to preclinical trials.

Standards of quality

Our services have standards of quality required in the pharmaceutical, biotech and medtech sectors, from Good Practices to ISO certifications.

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

NANBIOSIS Showcases Biosensor Innovation as Sponsor of EBS2025 in Tarragona

NANBIOSIS sponsored EBS2025 in Tarragona, showcasing the advances of Units 2 & 29 in antibodies and oligonucleotides for next-gen biosensors.

Tarragona, October 2025 — NANBIOSIS proudly participated as an official sponsor of the 5th European Biosensor Symposium (EBS2025), held from 26 to 29 October 2025 in Tarragona. The international event, chaired by Prof. Dr. M. Pilar Marco (IQAC-CSIC / CIBER-BBN and Scientific Director of Unit 2 of NANBIOSIS), brought together hundreds of researchers, engineers and industry leaders to discuss the latest advances in biosensors, nanotechnology, microfluidics, and diagnostic devices.

Through its Unit 2 and Unit 29, NANBIOSIS highlighted its key role in supporting cutting-edge biosensor research and development — from custom antibody generation to oligonucleotide synthesis — providing essential technological capabilities for the next generation of diagnostic and monitoring tools.

NANBIOSIS: Driving Innovation in Biosensor Research

As a national Singular Scientific and Technical Infrastructure (ICTS), NANBIOSIS provides open access to advanced facilities and expert support in biomedicine, nanomedicine, biomaterials and biosensors.
Its participation in EBS2025 reinforces the infrastructure’s mission to bridge academic research and industrial innovation, helping translate discoveries into practical applications that benefit health, environment, and society.

Unit 2: Custom Antibody Service (CAbS-Nb4D-CSIC)

Represented at the symposium by members of the Nanobiotechnology for Diagnostics (Nb4D) group at IQAC-CSIC, Unit 2 showcased its extensive experience in the design, production and characterization of custom immunoreagents.

The Custom Antibody Service (CAbS) provides comprehensive solutions for hapten synthesis, monoclonal and polyclonal antibody generation, and antibody conjugation with enzymes, fluorophores or nanoparticles.
Its ISO 9001:2015-certified processes ensure high-quality reagents for biosensing applications across sectors such as medical diagnostics, food safety, environmental monitoring, and biomarker detection.

During EBS2025, the Nb4D group, which also chaired the conference, presented advances in immunosensor design and analytical performance optimization, highlighting how antibody engineering can enhance biosensor sensitivity and selectivity.

Unit 29: Oligonucleotide Synthesis Platform (OSP)

Also based at IQAC-CSIC, Unit 29 – the Oligonucleotide Synthesis Platform (OSP) – plays a pivotal role in developing nucleic-acid-based biosensors. The unit specializes in the synthesis, purification and characterization of modified oligonucleotides, including DNA and RNA derivatives conjugated with lipids, peptides or carbohydrates.

At EBS2025, Unit 29 representatives engaged with researchers developing aptamer-based biosensors and nucleic acid diagnostics, exploring opportunities for collaboration in sequence modification, bioconjugation and sensor surface functionalization.

These capabilities align closely with current trends in biosensing and nanotechnology, where hybrid bio-nano systems are key to creating more sensitive, specific, and portable diagnostic devices.

Dr. Nuria Pascual, Scientific Coordinator of Unit 2, at EBS2025

Strengthening Collaboration in the European Biosensor Community

EBS2025 offered NANBIOSIS a valuable opportunity to connect with international experts, startups, and industry partners. The symposium’s scientific sessions showcased breakthroughs in AI-enhanced biosensors, organ-on-chip models, nanomaterial-based detection, and wearable diagnostic technologies.

Through its sponsorship and active participation, NANBIOSIS reaffirmed its role as a strategic partner in European biosensor research, offering comprehensive services that cover the entire innovation pipeline – from biomolecule design to device functionalization and validation.

Dr. Anna Aviñó,Scientific Coordinator of Unit 29, at EBS2025

About the European Biosensor Symposium 2025

The 5th European Biosensor Symposium (EBS2025) took place in the Tarragona Exhibition and Congress Center, gathering leading scientists from academia and industry. The event was organized by IQAC-CSIC and CIBER-BBN, under the leadership of Prof. M. Pilar Marco, with support from sponsors such as NANBIOSIS, Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), and Reial Acadèmia de Farmàcia de Catalunya.

The symposium addressed emerging trends in biosensing technologies, micro- and nanofabrication, artificial intelligence for diagnostics, and organ-on-chip platforms – reflecting the multidisciplinary nature of modern biosensor research.

What is NANBIOSIS?

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

Leading scientists

The main value of NANBIOSIS is our highly qualified and experienced academic scientists, working in public institutions, renowned universities and other research institutes.

Custom solutions

Designed for either scientific collaboration or the private industry, we adapt our services to your needs, filling the gaps and paving the way towards the next breakthrough.

Cutting-Edge facilities

Publicly funded, with the most advanced equipment, offering a wide variety of services from synthesis of nanoparticles and medical devices, including up to preclinical trials.

Standards of quality

Our services have standards of quality required in the pharmaceutical, biotech and medtech sectors, from Good Practices to ISO certifications.

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

NANBIOSIS Strengthens Internal Collaboration at 2025 Networking Event in Cáceres

NANBIOSIS held its 2025 networking event in Cáceres to boost collaboration among Units in biomaterials, nanomedicine, and biomedical research.

Cáceres, October 2025From 22 to 24 October 2025, the Singular Scientific and Technical Infrastructure (ICTS) NANBIOSIS held its annual internal networking event at the Centro de Cirugía de Mínima Invasión Jesús Usón (CCMIJU) in Cáceres, Spain. The event brought together Unit coordinators, researchers, and technical staff from across Spain to foster collaboration, share scientific progress, and explore new opportunities for joint projects in biomedical research, nanomedicine, and biotechnology.

A meeting to boost collaboration across NANBIOSIS Units

The three-day event was designed to enhance synergy among all the Units that make up NANBIOSIS, a distributed infrastructure offering cutting-edge services for biomaterials, nanomaterials, bioimaging, preclinical validation, and high-performance computing.

The meeting opened on 22 October with a welcome address by the Secretary General for Science of the Junta de Extremadura, who highlighted the strategic importance of research infrastructures like NANBIOSIS for innovation in health technologies. This was followed by an introduction to the initiative “Cutting Edge Biomedical Solutions”, reinforcing the mission of NANBIOSIS to support advanced biomedical development.

That afternoon, participants presented their work grouped under three scientific programmes:

  • Programme 1: Production of Biomolecules (Units 1 to 3 and 29)
  • Programme 2: Production of Biomaterials and Nanomaterials (Units 6 to 10)
  • Programme 5: High-Performance Computing (Unit 27)

The day concluded with a networking session encouraging informal exchanges and inter-Unit dialogue, in the context of the outstanding facilities of CCMIJU, one of the three nodes that form NANBIOSIS.

Guided Tour and Technical Presentations at CCMIJU

On 23 October, participants took part in a guided tour of CCMIJU, visiting the centre’s advanced research facilities in preclinical studies, imaging technologies, and tissue engineering.

After a short coffee break, the morning continued with presentations from Programme 3: Preclinical Validation – Characterisation of Tissues, Biomaterials and Surfaces (Units 12 to 19, and 30). Finally, the last programme was explained that same day in the afternoon, with Programme 4: Preclinical Validation – Bioimaging (Units 20 to 26, and 28).

Similarly to the previous day, throughout the day networking sessions facilitated direct interaction between teams, helping identify new collaboration opportunities across scientific programmes.

To close the technical sessions, participants joined “The NANBIOSIS Contest”, an interactive Kahoot-style quiz promoting engagement and friendly competition. In the evening, a guided cultural visit of Cáceres allowed attendees to explore the historic city’s UNESCO World Heritage old town.

Strengthening the NANBIOSIS Network

The final day, 24 October, saw participants returning to Madrid, concluding an event marked by enthusiasm, collaboration, and a strong sense of community across the infrastructure.

This internal networking event successfully:

  • Reinforced communication and coordination among NANBIOSIS Units.
  • Promoted awareness of each Unit’s services, equipment, and expertise.
  • Laid the groundwork for new interdisciplinary collaborations and new CEBS.
  • Highlighted the role of NANBIOSIS as a national and international reference in biomedical innovation and nanotechnology.

What is NANBIOSIS?

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

Leading scientists

The main value of NANBIOSIS is our highly qualified and experienced academic scientists, working in public institutions, renowned universities and other research institutes.

Custom solutions

Designed for either scientific collaboration or the private industry, we adapt our services to your needs, filling the gaps and paving the way towards the next breakthrough.

Cutting-Edge facilities

Publicly funded, with the most advanced equipment, offering a wide variety of services from synthesis of nanoparticles and medical devices, including up to preclinical trials.

Standards of quality

Our services have standards of quality required in the pharmaceutical, biotech and medtech sectors, from Good Practices to ISO certifications.

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

NANBIOSIS at BIOSPAIN 2025: Strengthening public-private bridges for translational nanomedicine

NANBIOSIS joins BIOSPAIN 2025 with ISCIII and CIBER, boosting biotech partnerships and showcasing early HTA and ARISTOS innovations.

Barcelona, October 2025 — Last week NANBIOSIS took part in BIOSPAIN 2025 (Fira de Barcelona Montjuïc), joining forces at the ISCIII / CIBER stand to showcase our facilities and to deepen collaborations with industry partners, users and strategic allies. Over three intensive days the NANBIOSIS and CIBER representatives held multiple meetings with potential private partners and technology users to accelerate translation of nanomedicine and biomedical technologies.

Record edition: numbers that matter

BIOSPAIN 2025 closed as the largest edition to date: more than 2,400 attendees from 1,065 organisations across 34 countries, 140 investors representing 76 investment entities, ~250 exhibitors, and over 4,500 one-to-one meetings, reinforcing BIOSPAIN as Spain’s (and one of Europe’s) main partnering platform for biotechnology and life sciences. Organisers also announced Bilbao as the host city for BIOSPAIN 2026 (September 29–October 1, 2026).

NANBIOSIS contributions and leadership at the congress

NANBIOSIS participation combined exhibition, partnering and scientific leadership:

  • We staffed the joint ISCIII–CIBER stand, connecting NANBIOSIS Units and services with industry delegates interested in diagnostics, drug delivery, advanced therapies and computational/biomanufacturing resources. These meetings generated promising follow-ups for collaborative projects and user requests.
  • Prof. Pilar Marco (Research Professor, CSIC; Head of CIBER-BBN; and Scientific Director of NANBIOSIS Unit 2 (Custom Antibody Service, CAbS) moderated the roundtable “Early Health Technology Assessment: Designing the Roadmap for Successful Medical Innovation Translation.” The session emphasised the strategic value of embedding HTA early in the research-to-market pipeline to improve clinical relevance, cost-effectiveness, stakeholder alignment and the success of technology transfer.

Prof. Pilar Marco, Scientific Director of NANBIOSIS Unit 2, moderating the roundtable on Early Health Technology Assessment.

ARISTOS Fellows presenting translational projects (NANBIOSIS connections)

At the 1st ARISTOS Entrepreneurs Dissemination Day (an event of the ARISTOS Postdoctoral Programme co-funded by the EU Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND and CIBER), several ARISTOS fellows linked to CIBER-BBN and working with NANBIOSIS Units presented projects aimed at clinical translation and industry uptake. These presentations fostered direct dialogue with private-sector experts on exploitation and secondment opportunities. Confirmed speakers included: Erika Pineda Ramírez (NanoGlue: glue-nanoparticles for immunotherapy) working in the group of Prof. Ramón Martínez Máñez, Director of NANBIOSIS and Scientific Director of Unit 26 (NMR applications); Sofía Romagnoli (BRUHealth: ECGi + multiscale cardiac modelling for Brugada syndrome), working in the group of Prof. Pablo Laguna, Scientific Director of Unit 27 (High Performance Computing), Dr Lilianne Beola Guibert (next-generation living organoids for high-throughput clinical testing) working in the group of Prof. Jesús M. de la Fuente; and Dr Salim Çeriğ (OLEO-CardioSafe: stem-cell strategy to prevent chemotherapy cardiotoxicity) working in the group of Prof. Ángel Raya. ARISTOS is funded under Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant No 101081334.

Why early HTA and infrastructures like NANBIOSIS matter

The BIOSPAIN programme under the motto “Global crossroads, local vibes” foregrounded three strategic pillars — health, investment and sustainability — and highlighted how convergence (biotech + engineering + digitalisation) and multidisciplinary talent accelerate industrial transformation. NANBIOSIS’s open-access platforms (characterised by advanced instrumentation, standardised workflows and regulatory/quality expertise) are designed to help researchers and SMEs implement early HTA-informed development and provide the evidence and technical readiness levels required by investors, regulators and hospitals. The combination of early economic, clinical and organisational assessment with robust preclinical services reduces the risk of late-stage failure and speeds up market access.

Moving forward: follow-ups and next steps

As BIOSPAIN transitions to an annual format and prepares for Bilbao 2026, NANBIOSIS will continue to:

  • pursue partnerships initiated at BIOSPAIN 2025 (industry secondments, collaborative R&D, service contracts);
  • support ARISTOS and other postdoctoral talent in accelerating commercial pathways for their projects; and
  • promote early HTA integration alongside preclinical/characterisation services to improve translation outcomes.

If you are an industry partner or researcher who met NANBIOSIS at BIOSPAIN 2025 and would like to continue the conversation, please contact our communications or business development team via: info@nanbiosis.es

Dr. Gabriel Alfranca, Communication and Internationalization Manager at NANBIOSIS, representing the management team at BIOSPAIN 2025.

What is NANBIOSIS?

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

Leading scientists

The main value of NANBIOSIS is our highly qualified and experienced academic scientists, working in public institutions, renowned universities and other research institutes.

Custom solutions

Designed for either scientific collaboration or the private industry, we adapt our services to your needs, filling the gaps and paving the way towards the next breakthrough.

Cutting-Edge facilities

Publicly funded, with the most advanced equipment, offering a wide variety of services from synthesis of nanoparticles and medical devices, including up to preclinical trials.

Standards of quality

Our services have standards of quality required in the pharmaceutical, biotech and medtech sectors, from Good Practices to ISO certifications.

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

HPLC: What It Is, How It Works, and Its Applications in Modern Biotech

Discover what HPLC is, how it works, and why it’s essential in analytical chemistry and biotechnology. Learn about real applications like LC/MSD iQ integration for antibody purification.

What is HPLC? Understanding High-Performance Liquid Chromatography

High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is one of the most powerful analytical techniques used in chemistry, biochemistry, and biotechnology. From pharmaceutical quality control to the purification of cutting-edge biotechnological products, HPLC provides high-resolution separation and precise quantification of complex mixtures. Its precision, sensitivity, and versatility have made it indispensable in both research and industrial settings.

This article explores how HPLC works, its key components, real-world applications —including the integration of mass detectors like the Agilent LC/MSD iQ— and how this technique is evolving toward automation and AI-enhanced scalability.

How does HPLC work? Core principles and mechanism

At its core, HPLC is a technique for separating, identifying, and quantifying the components of a mixture by exploiting their interaction with a stationary phase and a liquid mobile phase under high pressure.

Mobile and stationary phases

The mobile phase is a liquid solvent or a mixture of solvents that carries the sample through the system. The stationary phase is typically a column packed with small, porous particles (often silica-based) that interact differently with each compound.

As the mobile phase flows under high pressure through the stationary phase, each component in the sample moves at a different rate depending on its chemical characteristics and interaction with the column material.

Retention time and elution

Every compound elutes from the column at a different retention time. This is a key indicator used to identify and quantify substances. The sharper and more distinct the elution peaks, the more effective the separation.

Types of HPLC

HPLC can be tailored to different applications through various modes:

  • Isocratic Elution: A constant mobile phase composition throughout the run.
  • Gradient Elution: Varies the composition of the mobile phase to improve separation of complex mixtures.
  • Reverse-Phase HPLC (RP-HPLC): The most common form, using a nonpolar stationary phase and polar mobile phase.
  • Normal-Phase HPLC, Ion-Exchange HPLC, and Size-Exclusion HPLC are also used based on the molecular properties of the analytes.

Key components of an HPLC system

Understanding each part of the system is essential for appreciating its versatility and precision, as well as to help understanding how it can benefit from the analytical potential of this technique.

1. Solvent delivery system (Pump)

The pump delivers the mobile phase through the column at a precise and constant flow rate, often between 0.5 to 1.5 mL/min, under pressures of up to 6000 psi.

2. Injector and sample introduction

The injector introduces the sample into the mobile phase. Manual or autosampler injectors are used depending on the system’s automation level. This provides the column with a mixture of the sample and the mobile phase.

3. Column: The Heart of HPLC

This is where the separation happens. Columns vary in length, diameter, and particle size depending on the application. Different types of columns can be used depending on the nature of the sample. Reverse-phase C18 columns are the most widely used in pharmaceutical and biotech labs.

4. Detectors: UV vs Mass Spectrometry (MS)

Traditional systems use UV-Vis detectors to measure absorbance. However, newer systems incorporate Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) for enhanced specificity. Mass detectors can identify compounds based on molecular weight, offering far superior sensitivity and selectivity.

HPLC vs LC-MS: Enhanced analytical power

Combining HPLC with Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) brings unmatched analytical power, especially when dealing with complex biological samples. This is thanks to their superior analytical capabilities compared to traditional detection approaches.

The role of LC/MSD iQ integration

At NANBIOSIS Unit 2 (CAbS), researchers have integrated the Agilent G6160A LC/MSD iQ mass selective detector with the Agilent 1260 HPLC system to significantly enhance immunoreagent analysis.

This configuration enables:

  • Specific molecular mass detection
  • Rapid confirmation of compound identity
  • Higher selectivity than UV detectors, even for overlapping peaks
  • Improved purification protocols

Advantages over traditional UV detection

Traditional UV detectors may struggle with closely eluting or co-eluting compounds, especially in bioanalytical samples. LC-MS eliminates this by providing a mass fingerprint for each analyte, ensuring better resolution and reducing false positives.

Real Case: Immunoreagent characterization

NANBIOSIS experts at Unit 2 (Custom Antibody Service) use LC/MSD iQ for:

  • Monitoring the purity of antibodies
  • Quantifying specific immunoreagents
  • Characterizing molecular forms for regulatory compliance

This setup supports biotech development pipelines and technology transfer from lab to industry, highlighting the practical utility of this cutting-edge analytical technique.

Applications of HPLC in science and the industry

HPLC is essential across multiple fields where chemical precision is non-negotiable. A few examples are listed herein.

Pharmaceutical Analysis and Quality Control

  • Identification and quantification of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)
  • Stability testing and degradation analysis
  • Regulatory compliance (FDA, EMA)

Biotechnology and Biologics Purification

  • Purification of monoclonal antibodies, peptides, and recombinant proteins
  • Analytical development for biosimilars and biobetters
  • Batch release testing in biomanufacturing

Environmental and Food Safety Testing

  • Detection of contaminants, pesticides, or drug residues
  • Analysis of food additives, vitamins, and preservatives
  • Monitoring of water quality and industrial effluents

Advantages and limitations of HPLC

Strengths

  • High precision and reproducibility
  • Exceptional resolution of complex mixtures
  • Compatibility with a wide range of detectors and samples
  • Scalable from analytical to preparative scales

Limitations

  • High equipment and maintenance cost
  • Requirement of trained personnel
  • Complex method development
  • Solvent usage and disposal issues

These limitations, however, are mitigated in advanced laboratories through automation, SOPs, and proper training protocols. This is where NANBIOSIS Unit 2 can help you overcome these hurdles.

Future of HPLC: Innovation and automation

There are a few ground-breaking technologies that can potentially revolutionize many analyticial techniques, and HPLC is no exception. The integration of AI, robotics, and cloud-based systems is redefining what HPLC can do.

AI-integrated HPLC platforms

Future systems could incorporate real-time predictive analytics, optimizing flow rates, gradients, and detection settings for maximum efficiency.

Large-scale applications and process control

With sufficient investment, platforms like Agilent LC/MSD iQ can be scaled for industrial-level purification, maintaining accuracy without manual intervention.

Vision from CAbS: NANBIOSIS Expertise

In a scenario with unlimited funding, the team at NANBIOSIS Unit 2 envisions:

  • A fully integrated LC/MS-AI platform
  • Real-time monitoring and adaptive process control
  • Seamless tech transfer from lab to industrial production
  • Global-scale immunoreagent production with full traceability

This would elevate the role of HPLC from an analytical tool to a core component of industrial bioprocessing infrastructure.

Conclusion: Why HPLC remains indispensable in Analytical Chemistry

Despite the emergence of newer techniques, HPLC remains the gold standard for separation science. Its adaptability —especially when combined with mass spectrometry— ensures its place in the future of biotech, pharma, and beyond.

Whether you’re developing life-saving biologics, ensuring water safety, or refining analytical workflows, HPLC continues to deliver unmatched resolution, reliability, and reproducibility.

Credits:
Nuria Pascual
Gabriel Alfranca

What is NANBIOSIS?

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

Leading scientists

The main value of NANBIOSIS is our highly qualified and experienced academic scientists, working in public institutions, renowned universities and other research institutes.

Custom solutions

Designed for either scientific collaboration or the private industry, we adapt our services to your needs, filling the gaps and paving the way towards the next breakthrough.

Cutting-Edge facilities

Publicly funded, with the most advanced equipment, offering a wide variety of services from synthesis of nanoparticles and medical devices, including up to preclinical trials.

Standards of quality

Our services have standards of quality required in the pharmaceutical, biotech and medtech sectors, from Good Practices to ISO certifications.

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

Protein Purification Methods: Advanced Techniques and Automation with ÄKTA Pure

Explore modern protein purification methods with a special focus on automated systems like ÄKTA Pure. Learn how advanced chromatography workflows are transforming antibody production, diagnostics, and biotech applications.

What is protein purification and why does it matter?

Protein purification is a fundamental process in biotechnology, biomedical research, and pharmaceutical production. It involves isolating a specific protein of interest from a complex mixture, such as a cell lysate, while preserving its structure and function. This process is critical because the quality, purity, and yield of proteins directly impact downstream applications such as drug development, diagnostic assays, and therapeutic research.

In the context of immunoreagents, such as antibodies, protein purification ensures the removal of host cell proteins, nucleic acids, and other contaminants that may interfere with analytical or clinical performance. High-purity proteins are essential for reproducibility and reliability across scientific studies.

The traditional steps of protein purification

The protein purification workflow typically includes several key steps:

  1. Cell lysis and extraction: Disruption of the cell membrane to release intracellular contents using chemical, mechanical, or enzymatic methods.
  2. Clarification: Removal of insoluble debris through centrifugation or filtration.
  3. Buffer exchange and conditioning: Adjusting pH, salt concentration, and adding stabilizers to optimize protein behavior before chromatography.

Each step requires careful design to avoid loss of protein function or yield.

Overview of core purification techniques

Several chromatographic methods are widely employed:

  • Affinity Chromatography: Exploits specific interactions between the protein and a ligand attached to a resin. Protein A or G resins are commonly used for antibody purification.
  • Ion Exchange Chromatography (IEX): Separates proteins based on charge differences.
  • Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC): Also known as gel filtration, this method separates proteins based on size and shape.
  • Precipitation and Filtration: Less specific methods used in early-stage purification, often resulting in variable quality.

The role of automation in protein purification: ÄKTA Pure

The ÄKTA Pure system represents a shift towards automation in protein purification. Developed by Cytiva, it integrates multiple chromatography techniques into a single, modular, and highly customizable platform.

ÄKTA Pure addresses key challenges in protein purification:

  • Reproducibility: Reduces variability associated with manual processes.
  • Contamination Control: Automation minimizes exposure and potential degradation.
  • Optimization: Through UNICORN software, parameters like flow rate, pH, and gradient elution are finely controlled.

Its use of affinity, ion exchange, and size exclusion chromatography enables highly pure antibody isolation with reduced time and effort.

Comparative analysis: ÄKTA Pure vs other systems

While traditional systems like HPLC offer precision, they lack the flexibility and ease of method development found in ÄKTA Pure. Manual purification methods, although accessible, introduce variability and limit scalability.

Compared to other FPLC systems, ÄKTA Pure stands out due to:

  • Integrated software (UNICORN) for intuitive protocol design
  • Modular components for flexibility
  • Scalability from research to pilot production

Applications and impact in the biomedical and biotech industries

The ÄKTA Pure system has a significant impact in fields requiring consistent, high-purity proteins:

  • Diagnostics: Antibody production for ELISA and lateral flow assays
  • Biotech R&D: Reliable protein reagents for drug screening and discovery
  • Therapeutics: Preparation of immunoreagents for preclinical validation

Barriers to entry and practical considerations

Despite its advantages, implementing ÄKTA Pure may involve high initial equipment cost, training needs for advanced chromatography and software use, and infrastructure adjustments in existing labs.

However, these challenges are offset by long-term gains in quality, throughput, and compliance.

Near and long-term opportunities for automated protein purification

Short and mid-term applications include:

  • Routine antibody purification for biomedical research
  • Development of high-performance diagnostic reagents
  • Protocol refinement to increase yields and consistency

Looking forward:

  • Integration with AI for adaptive protocol optimization
  • Large-scale purification of advanced antibody formats (e.g., bispecifics, ADCs)
  • Continuous processing for industrial-scale immunoreagent production

NANBIOSIS case study: Integrating ÄKTA Pure into CABS services

The CABS platform within NANBIOSIS incorporates ÄKTA Pure to support:

  • Rapid adaptation to different antibody types
  • Regulatory-compliant workflows
  • Expert-guided optimization for diverse client needs

This integration allows seamless transition from research protocols to industrial applications, drastically decreasing the challenges of the technique, and enhancing efficiency and reliability.

Conclusion

Modern protein purification is evolving from manual methods to intelligent, automated systems. ÄKTA Pure exemplifies this shift, offering robust solutions to common challenges in protein production. As the demand for high-quality immunoreagents grows, adopting flexible, scalable purification systems will be key to innovation in diagnostics, therapeutics, and beyond.

Credits:
Nuria Pascual
Gabriel Alfranca

What is NANBIOSIS?

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

Leading scientists

The main value of NANBIOSIS is our highly qualified and experienced academic scientists, working in public institutions, renowned universities and other research institutes.

Custom solutions

Designed for either scientific collaboration or the private industry, we adapt our services to your needs, filling the gaps and paving the way towards the next breakthrough.

Cutting-Edge facilities

Publicly funded, with the most advanced equipment, offering a wide variety of services from synthesis of nanoparticles and medical devices, including up to preclinical trials.

Standards of quality

Our services have standards of quality required in the pharmaceutical, biotech and medtech sectors, from Good Practices to ISO certifications.

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

NANBIOSIS to participate in the new edition of the European Biosensors Symposium 2025

NANBIOSIS will join EBS2025 in Tarragona as organizer and sponsor, with a stand to showcase its services in biosensors and nanobiomedicine.

Tarragona, october 2025. NANBIOSIS will be actively participating in the European Biosensors Symposium (EBS) 2025, which will take place from 26th to 29th October in Tarragona, Spain. The event, which brings together leading researchers and innovators in the field of biosensors, provides a platform to discuss the latest scientific and technological advances, promote collaboration, and explore new opportunities for innovation.

This year, NANBIOSIS is proud to be part of the organization and will also be present as an official sponsor of the symposium. As part of its involvement, NANBIOSIS will have a dedicated stand at the venue to showcase its cutting-edge services and facilities. Visitors will be able to learn more about the capabilities of the ICTS and the broad portfolio of solutions it offers to researchers and companies working in biosensors and related fields.

Promotional materials, such as posters and roll-ups, will be displayed at the stand, and NANBIOSIS representatives will be on-site to engage with participants, answer questions, and explore potential collaborations. We are also exploring the possibility of giving a short presentation during the symposium to further highlight the impact and expertise of NANBIOSIS in this field.

Prof. Pilar Marco, head of the Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN) thematic area at the Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBER) and scientific director of Unit 2 of NANBIOSIS, leads the Organizing Committee of EBS 2025.

For more information about the event, please visit the official website: https://www.ebs2025.com/

What is NANBIOSIS?

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

Leading scientists

The main value of NANBIOSIS is our highly qualified and experienced academic scientists, working in public institutions, renowned universities and other research institutes.

Custom solutions

Designed for either scientific collaboration or the private industry, we adapt our services to your needs, filling the gaps and paving the way towards the next breakthrough.

Cutting-Edge facilities

Publicly funded, with the most advanced equipment, offering a wide variety of services from synthesis of nanoparticles and medical devices, including up to preclinical trials.

Standards of quality

Our services have standards of quality required in the pharmaceutical, biotech and medtech sectors, from Good Practices to ISO certifications.

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

Prof. Pilar Marco takes helm of CIBER-BBN: Leading the future of Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine

Barcelona, June 21, 2024 – Prof. Pilar Marco has been appointed as the new head of the Bioengineering, Biomaterials, and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN) thematic area at the Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red (CIBER). This prestigious appointment was confirmed during the CIBER Governing Board meeting held on June 20, 2024. Prof. Marco succeeds Ramón Martínez, bringing a wealth of expertise and a distinguished track record in biomedical research for more than a decade.

Prof. Marco is a research professor at the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), specifically at the Institute of Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC) in Barcelona. Additionally, she leads the Nanobiotechnology for Diagnosis research group and is the Scientific Director of our Custom Antibody Service, the Unit 2 of NANBIOSIS, as well as the coordinator of the Nanomedicine Research Program at CIBER-BBN.

An expert in antibodies and immunoassays

Recognized as an international authority in antibody-based technologies and the development of immunoassays for diagnostic purposes, Prof. Marco’s impressive academic and research portfolio includes 225 published articles and the supervision of 32 doctoral theses. She has also served as Principal Investigator in 14 European projects and over 20 national projects.

Her contributions to scientific innovation are evident in her dedication to knowledge transfer. Prof. Marco holds 15 patents and has signed 36 contracts with various companies, six of which are for commercial exploitation. Her work aims to bridge the gap between research and practical applications, ultimately improving the quality of life in society.

A new chapter in scientific collaboration

In addition to her role at CIBER-BBN, Prof. Marco coordinates the Strategic Diagnostic Initiative of the PTI+ Global Health and serves on the Technical Committee of the National Center for Certification of Health Products. Her leadership and vision are expected to propel CIBER-BBN into new frontiers of research and development in bioengineering, biomaterials, and nanomedicine.

Pilar Marco, Fernando Artalejo and Didac Mauricio

Joining Prof. Marco in the new leadership appointments are Fernando Artalejo, who will head the CIBER for Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), and Didac Mauricio, who will lead the CIBER for Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Diseases (CIBERDEM). Together, these appointments mark a significant step forward in CIBER’s mission to advance biomedical research and improve public health.

Prof. Pilar Marco’s vision and expertise are set to drive CIBER-BBN’s mission forward, enhancing its contributions to scientific discovery and the development of cutting-edge biomedical technologies. Her leadership promises to strengthen collaborations and foster innovations that will benefit both the scientific community and society at large.

We congratulate Prof. Marco on her new role and look forward to the remarkable advancements that will undoubtedly emerge under her guidance.

What is NANBIOSIS?

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

Leading scientists

The main value of NANBIOSIS is our highly qualified and experienced academic scientists, working in public institutions, renowned universities and other research institutes.

Custom solutions

Designed for either scientific collaboration or the private industry, we adapt our services to your needs, filling the gaps and paving the way towards the next breakthrough.

Cutting-Edge facilities

Publicly funded, with the most advanced equipment, offering a wide variety of services from synthesis of nanoparticles and medical devices, including up to preclinical trials.

Standards of quality

Our services have standards of quality required in the pharmaceutical, biotech and medtech sectors, from Good Practices to ISO certifications.

In order to access our Cutting-Edge Biomedical Solutions with priority access, enter our Competitive Call here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More

The fight against rare respiratory diseases: New hope in detection and treatment

Researchers from IQAC-CSIC advance towards faster detection and treatment of cystic fibrosis and rare respiratory diseases, improving patient outcomes.

28 February 2024, IQAC-CSIC (Barcelona)

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a progressive autosomal recessive disease. It is caused by a mutation in the gene encoding the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) protein, disrupting its exocrine activity. While CF affects various organs, its impact on the lungs is particularly severe. This disease leads to the accumulation of thick, sticky mucus, obstructing airways and trapping bacteria, resulting in significant infections and extensive lung damage. Consequently, individuals with CF are highly susceptible to respiratory tract infections. In this regard, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus are among the most prevalent pathogens.

Early detection of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus in CF patients is crucial to eradicate these pathogens before the development of chronic colonization. Moreover, even after the chronic colonization occurs, proper control of the bacterial burden is necessary to minimize progressive lung deterioration. Currently, the gold standard for detecting these bacteria involves conventional bacterial culture methods. However, as in any infectious process, time is of the essence, and these techniques typically take 2 to 3 days to be confirmed. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop faster, more sensitive, and specific diagnostic methods.

In this context, the Nanobiotechnology for Diagnostics (Nb4D) group at the IQAC-CSIC, in which the Unit 2 of NANBIOSIS (CAbS) is integrated, focuses much of its research on bacterial communication systems, specifically Quorum Sensing (QS).

Quorum Sensing is a fascinating mechanism that allows bacteria to react to the presence of other bacteria. In other words, QS regulates bacterial gene expression in response to fluctuations in microbial population density. QS-sensitive bacteria produce and release signaling molecules called autoinducers (AIs). Just the detection of a minimum concentration of AIs triggers radical changes in gene expression, activating processes such as biofilm formation or virulence.

The QS system is well-characterized for both P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. This makes the detection of these AIs, or even QS-regulated virulence factors (VFs) (such as the aforementioned biofilm formation), a promising approach for bacterial identification. As a consequence, by knowing how AIs and VFs work, doctors can predict how an infection may progress. Much like a bacterial molecular fingerprint.

The research team of Nb4D and CAbS.

Thanks to their solid know-how, the Nb4D group has developed specific antibodies against AIs and VFs of both bacterial species. With that under their belt, this group has designed ELISA assays capable of detecting these molecules. Then, using this popular technique, they managed to run detection tests in approximately 2 hours, both in bacterial isolates and sputum human samples.

Additionally, our researchers are evaluating these antibodies as therapeutic agents using cell cultures, using their antibodies to block dangerous VFs and AIs. These studies are yielding promising results in mitigating the cytotoxic effects caused by the aforementioned VFs and AIs.

Detecting Alpha-1-antitrypsin protein

In addressing rare diseases related to the respiratory system, the Nb4D group is also involved in developing a device for detecting Alpha-1-antitrypsin protein. The genetic deficiency of this protein causes damage to the lungs and liver, affecting 1 in every 2500 individuals in Europe. Rapid and highly sensitive detection of Alpha-1-antitrypsin levels should enable immediate treatment initiation, thereby preventing potential complications.

This research line represents an example of clinical cooperation. It involves collaboration with clinical personnel from Hospital del Mar, Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol (Barcelona), and Hospital Son Espases (Mallorca). In addition, the interest has peaked to the point of attracting funding such as State ‘Plan Estatal de I+D+I’, as well as a grant from the ‘Fundació La Marató’ of TV3, among other sources.

Through innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, the Nb4D group is dedicated to improving outcomes for individuals affected by rare respiratory diseases. This involves their work in cystic fibrosis among other conditions, pushing forward the understanding and management of these challenging diseases.

This article is in the context of Rare Disease Day 2024. To stay up to date, visit our news section here.

Additional information:

The goal of NANBIOSIS is to provide comprehensive and integrated advanced solutions for companies and research institutions in biomedical applications. All of this is done through a single-entry point, involving the design and production of biomaterials, nanomaterials, and their nanoconjugates. This includes their characterization from physical-chemical, functional, toxicological, and biological perspectives (preclinical validation).

In order to access our biomedical Solutions, apply here.

NANBIOSIS has worked with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes in the areas of drug delivery, biomaterials and regenerative medicine. Here are a few of them:

Read More