RSB AQS3 Product
Measurements

Similarity

For biosimilar molecules and reference standards, similarity in safety and efficacy is a must. Similarity in structure is also a requirement to guarantee critical quality characteristics. By using Microfluidic Modulation Spectroscopy (MMS) to measure and compare the similarity of a biosimilar or generic molecule against a known innovator or standard molecule, it is possible to quickly qualify how similar they are and characterize the differences in structure. This is accomplished through the relationship of the similarity measurement to the four additional measurements that are performed for each sample analysis. The relative similarity to a designated molecule as determined through area of overlap is calculated in percent form, making the identification of outliers and non-conforming molecules obvious.

As the relationship of structure vs function is determined for all biomolecules within the development and formulation pipelines, it is increasingly important to be confident in the critical quality attributes that govern their performance. Through incorporation of MMS into the characterization workflow and the use of a high-powered quantum cascade laser and optimized detector, the Aurora and Apollo can detect differences in structural similarity at levels as low as 2%.

Second derivative spectral overlay of several insulin biosimilar molecules as part of long-term storage stability study at 4˚C and 30˚C. Application Note Biosimilar Structural comparison of Commercially Source Reference Standards by MMS Rapidly Detects Subtle but Critical Differences to Correctly Predict Activity for Use in an ELISA Product.

For biosimilar molecules and reference standards, similarity in safety and efficacy is a must. Similarity in structure is also a requirement to guarantee critical quality characteristics. By using Microfluidic Modulation Spectroscopy (MMS) to measure and compare the similarity of a biosimilar or generic molecule against a known innovator or standard molecule, it is possible to quickly qualify how similar they are and characterize the differences in structure. This is accomplished through the relationship of the similarity measurement to the four additional measurements that are performed for each sample analysis. The relative similarity to a designated molecule as determined through area of overlap is calculated in percent form, making the identification of outliers and non-conforming molecules obvious.

As the relationship of structure vs function is determined for all biomolecules within the development and formulation pipelines, it is increasingly important to be confident in the critical quality attributes that govern their performance. Through incorporation of MMS into the characterization workflow and the use of a high-powered quantum cascade laser and optimized detector, the Aurora and Apollo can detect differences in structural similarity at levels as low as 2%.

Second derivative spectral overlay of several insulin biosimilar molecules as part of long-term storage stability study at 4˚C and 30˚C. Application Note Biosimilar Structural comparison of Commercially Source Reference Standards by MMS Rapidly Detects Subtle but Critical Differences to Correctly Predict Activity for Use in an ELISA Product.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the HaLCon "trap-and-elute technique" and how does it work?

Trap and elute means the analyte (IgG) is fully captured on the column, everything else passes through, then the analyte is released and the detector sees one peak. In terms of flow it differs from traditional liquid chromatography in that there is no gradient, just 100% reagent A to capture or trap IgG, then 100% reagent B to elute.

How does HaLCon react to other Immunoglobulins and other impurities?

The Tridex uses a Protein A media. Anything not bound to the Protein A passes through the column to waste.

How must the sample be prepared for HaLCon?

The sample needs to be filtered through a 0.2 µm or 0.45 µm filter to ensure it is free of cells and cell debris. Alternatively, the sample can be spun down and the supernatant sampled with a syringe. Users doing this need to be careful not to stick the syringe too deep in the centrifuge vial. For users familiar with HPLC, the sample can be prepared as if it were being run on HPLC because HaLCon uses a similar column and pre-column filter.

How much sample material or sample volume is required to run HaLCon?

We recommend 100 µL per sample. If you have a lower desired sample volume, please contact us and one of our experts can help evaluate the feasibility of the proposed sample volume.

Does HaLCon require any connections, e.g. water or gas, in addition to a power connection?

Nothing else but a power connection is needed.

What type of pump is used (traditional binary HPLC pump, peristaltic pump) for HaLCon?

HaLCon uses displacement/dispense pumps.  They work like a syringe pump except they are composed of more durable materials for longer, maintenance-free use. Since HaLCon uses low-pressure Liquid Chromatography, the maximum pressure recommended is 200-250 psi.  

What type of maintenance is required for HaLCon? And, will this maintenance be performed during a yearly PM?

No regular maintenance is required beyond changing the reagent pack and analysis module every 3 months or after running 1,000 samples, whichever comes first.  It is recommended to run a flush before running samples if the system has been idle for a few days.  

How do you ensure that no cells from the fermenter enter the HaLCon measuring device?

Samples should be spun down, and care should be taken to not disturb any pellets or to remove the entire sample from the centrifuge tube.  Alternatively, the samples can be filtered through a 0.2 µm or 0.45 µm filter.  

Does HaLCon have a built-in filter or a separator?

HalCOn does not have a built-in filter for removing samples, that must be done before loading the sample.

How can the user determine if the sample purification is functioning correctly when using HaLCon?

The best way to validate performance is by running a control sample of known concentration and verifying that the correct concentration value is returned by the software.

Can HaLCon also control the process, such as cooling down or emptying the fermenter when a specific threshold is reached? Or is it solely for monitoring purposes?

HaLCon is purpose-built for measuring protein titer, nothing else.  A sample is added either manually or via an autosampler and HaLCon provides a concentration.  HaLCon is compatible with multiple autosamplers, including the Flownamics Director, which may be able to automate the sampling from a bioreactor.

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RedShiftBio AQS3 Product Detail

Request a Demo Today! 

RedShiftBio AQS3 Product Detail