PAL System

Metabolomics at Heidelberg University <p>In our very first interview, Dr. Poschet provides valuable perspectives on the current state and future directions of metabolomics.</p> <p>He discusses the challenges and rewards of managing a core facility, the importance of automation and rigorous quality control, and the evolving role of metabolomics in precision medicine and multi-omics research.</p> <p>We would like to thank Dr. Poschet for taking the time and answering our questions.</p> <p>Find out more about the core lab and its services&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cctp.uni-heidelberg.de/en/core-facilities-and-technology-development/metabolomics-core-technology-platform" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <p>See how they automate their metabolomics workflows <a href="t3://file?uid=5690">here</a>.</p>

Read more about GC/MS and Metabolomics in this Interview

Download the App Note

Manual GC/MS batches lead to variable wait times, causing Glutamine to cyclize and Tryptophan profiles to shift.
Our App Note with the MCTP Heidelberg shows how automated overlapping ensures identical reaction histories for every sample.

A Conversation with Madison L. Williams on Volatile PFAS and Automated Microextraction <p>We often refer to PFAS as "forever chemicals," but this label misses a critical dynamic: the "forever cycle." While regulatory efforts focus on removing persistent ionic compounds from our water and soil, a hidden reservoir of volatile "neutral" precursors circulates in the air. These mobile molecules travel unseen, eventually degrading and transforming back into the very ionic PFAS we are trying to eliminate—continuously replenishing the pollution supply.</p> <p>Breaking this cycle requires catching these "slippery" airborne precursors before they transform. To do that, researchers need precise, robust, and automated analytical workflows capable of trapping volatile compounds without losing them.</p>

Read the Q&A:

Volatile neutral precursors (FTOHs, FOSAs) circulate in the air, unseen, before transforming back into ionic PFAS.

Madison L. Williams explains why standard methods miss them and how automated SPME Arrows close the gap. 🏹

2026 is here! 🌍 Ready to optimize your GC/MS or LC/MS workflows?

We are hitting the road! First major stop: analytica 2026 in Munich. 🇩🇪

Check out our full travel itinerary to see where we can connect this year: https://www.palsystem.com/en/newsroom/news/meet-pal-system-in-2026/

Stuck tool on your PAL RTC?
If a bent plunger prevents automatic parking, don't force it. We created a quick guide on how to perform a manual tool removal and mount safely.

Watch the full Step-by-Step here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Noxy7_3gx3E

#LabAutomation #PALSystem #Troubleshooting

Discover how this technique is pushing the boundaries of trace-level analysis in our latest article.
👉 Read more: palsystem.com/en/newsroom/news/v-itex-launched/
#SamplePreparation #MassSpectrometry #AnalyticalChemistry #ITEXDHS #GreenChemistry

By applying a vacuum to the sample vial during extraction, Vacuum-ITEX (V-ITEX) effectively lowers the pressure, increasing the volatility of analytes without the need for excessive heat.

When analyzing semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs), increasing extraction temperature isn't always an option due to analyte degradation. A noteworthy advancement in ITEX DHS technology addresses this challenge through vacuum assistance.

Our PAL newsletter delivers key developments in automated sample preparation, curated from our Newsroom, directly to your inbox. Stay informed on the future of automated sample preparation. Subscribe here: https://www.palsystem.com/en/pardotform/

Happy Holidays! ❄️🔬
Thank you for trusting us with your sample preparation in 2025. We look forward to automating more discoveries with you in the year ahead.

Our showroom transformed into a studio with the PAL DHR (Dual Head) taking center stage. 🤖
It is fascinating to watch the two heads work independently to optimize throughput, turning a busy sequence into a smooth, synchronized performance. We can't wait to share the final video!

Our new application note, "Tackling Forever Chemicals in FCM" details a complete walk-away solution for volatile PFAS.
See the full workflow for yourself. Download the application note: https://www.palsystem.com/index.php?eID=dumpFile&t=f&f=6703&token=b7a95cceaaa34ae678513d364ea425175aef3663

How is automation evolving to meet today’s biggest analytical challenges?

Our newsletter curates the latest insights from our Newsroom, focusing on developments in automated sample preparation, but also goes beyond that!

New "How-To" video now available! 🎥
Watch the full video on our channel!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=janQJJxxPX0 

#PALSystem #PALRSI #HowTo #LabMaintenance #LabTech #Automation #AnalyticalChemistry #GCMS #LCMS

V-ITEX | Automated Vacuum In-Tube Extraction for Gentle VOC & SVOC Analysis by GC/MS Discover V-ITEX, an automated vacuum headspace technique for gentle, low-temperature extraction of volatile and semi-volatile compounds (VOCs/SVOCs). Learn about its scientific applications in food science, metabolomics, and environmental analysis based on recent studies.

Discover more about VITEX and read our Newsroom

This new automated extraction for GC/MS delivers:
✅ Gentle enrichment at lower temperatures, protecting thermally labile analytes from degradation. 
✅ An expanded analytical window to capture less volatile and semi-volatile compounds often missed by conventional headspace techniques.

V-ITEX revolutionizes the extraction of volatile organic compounds & semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs). By replacing discrete syringe strokes with a continuous, controlled vacuum, it enables a gentler and more exhaustive enrichment of analytes.

We are proud to have been part of the joint development of the new GERSTEL V-ITEX – Vacuum In Tube Extraction technology, a fantastic collaboration with Agroscope and our partner GERSTEL!

A big thank you to all the teams who contributed to making this innovation a reality! 🙌

We're packing our bags and getting excited for SGMS 2025! 🏔️

See you in the mountains! 👋

#SGMS2025 #Metabolomics #TeamMassSpec #LCMS #Automation #Beatenberg #Science #PosterSession

Ready to see the full picture?
Download the application note from our Content Hub!

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals," are a major concern in food safety. Their use in food contact materials (FCMs) like coffee cups and wrappers means they can migrate into our food, creating a direct path for dietary exposure.

Behind the Makeup: An interview with Dr. A. A. Olomukoro <p>The cosmetics we use every day are formulated to be durable and long-lasting. But what gives them these properties? Often, the answer is a class of compounds called PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals." These substances are a growing concern for consumers and regulators due to their persistence in the environment and potential health risks. Tackling this analytical challenge requires innovative methods that can reliably detect trace amounts of PFAS in the complex matrices of cosmetic products.</p> <p>At the forefront of this research is Dr. Aghogho Abigail Olomukoro. Her recent Ph.D. work at the University at Buffalo, under the supervision of Dr. Emanuela Gionfriddo, provides a critical roadmap for analyzing these compounds. By comparing two powerful, automated sample preparation techniques - Solid Phase Microextraction (<a href="t3://page?uid=901" target="_blank">SPME</a>) and Micro Solid Phase Extraction (<a href="t3://page?uid=750" target="_blank">µSPE</a>) - her study offers a scientifically robust guide for laboratories worldwide.</p> <p>This pivotal research is the foundation of a new PAL System <a href="t3://file?uid=6666">application note</a> and was a cornerstone of our recent <a href="t3://page?uid=1116" target="_blank">PFAS webinar series</a>. We sat down with Abigail to discuss her journey into analytical chemistry, the intricacies of her research, and the real-world implications of finding forever chemicals in our makeup bags.</p>

Read our full interview on her work:

Huge congrats to Aghogho Abigail Olomukoro on her new PhD! 🎓

What's really in your mascara? Her research tackles "forever chemicals" (PFAS) in cosmetics by comparing automated SPME & µSPE sample prep - offering a guide for labs.

#PFAS #Cosmetics #AnalyticalChemistry

We've been busy and wanted to share a look back at what we've been up to.

Our Newsroom has been buzzing with insights and updates on everything from metabolomics to automated sample prep.

https://www.palsystem.com/en/newsroom/

Some materials react. Some break. Others perform. ✨We chose performance. ⚙️
Soon more. Stay tuned!

#PALSystem #LabAutomation #SamplePrep #Innovation #ComingSoon

Great news! We are teaming up with JAG Robotics at the ILMAC in Basel (16. - 18. September 2025)!

Want a sneak peek? 🤫 Check out our newsroom to see the robots in action: palsystem.com/en/newsroom/news/jag-robotics-x-pal-system/

#PALSytem #JAGRobotics #ILMAC2025

Check out our Newsroom article all about automated SPME-SICRIT-MS!
🔗https://www.palsystem.com/en/newsroom/news/automated-spme-sicrit-ms/

#TeamMassSpec #Automation #SPME #SPMEarrow #AmbientIonization

🔗 palsystem.com/en/newsroom/news/pfas-webinar-series/

#PFAS #Automation #Webinar #Science