University of Leiden, Biosyn Group

Q: WHAT IS THE FOCUS OF YOUR LAB’S RESEARCH?

A: The research in the Biosyn group is focused on the design, synthesis and function of the four major types of biomolecules: nucleic acids, carbohydrates, peptides and lipids and hybrid structures thereof. These biomolecules and their derivatives are used in drug discovery and chemical biology, to develop synthetic methodology or as an inspiration for mimetic design.

Q: WHAT WAS YOUR PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE?

A: I started as organic chemist on Pt-adducts on self-made DNA fragments under supervision of Professor Dr. J. Reedijk. Following that, I switched to synthesis of bio-organic molecules on solid support under supervision of Professor Dr. J.van Boom. Currently I am working with sophisticated analytical equipment including many (prep) LCMS systems under supervision of Professor Dr. H. Overkleeft. With this equipment we show our facility to many other workgroups within and outside the University of Leiden.

Q: WHY DID YOU INCORPORATE THE EXPRESSION CMS INTO YOUR LABORATORY?

A: It’s easy, walk-up use with straightforward swapping of ESI and APCI sources make it a reliable, productive tool for determining synthetic success.

Q: HOW DID THE EXPRESSION CMS HELP RESOLVE YOUR CHALLENGES?

A: I incorporated the expression CMS as TLC/MS system because of its simplicity, low cost and the brilliant combination with the Plate Express (as a TLC interface).

Q: TO WHOM WOULD YOU RECOMMEND THE EXPRESSION CMS?

A: I recommend the expression CMS to people who want to use a robust system with simple handling (like organic chemists).