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Young Investigator Workshop in Bioanalytics: Basic Lab Techniques and Latest Methods

Chemists, molecular biologists and physicians learned about the latest methods in the field of bioanalytics at the German Diabetes Center (DDZ), a partner of the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD). At the one-week Rainbow Workshop in Düsseldorf, the young investigators tested samples using the latest mass spectrometric methods in the field of proteomics. During the international event, the participants learned about the theoretical and practical aspects of protein detection and were able to test the methods on their own samples.

Participants of the 10th Rainbow Protein Workshop with organizer Stefan Lehr in the middle (10.f.l.). Source: DDZ e.V.

How does an experiment work? What do I need to be aware of when using and analyzing biosamples? What is important for the data analysis of proteins? – Knowing the basics in the preparation and analysis of samples is essential for the numerous studies in biomedical research. "In order for data analysis to be clean, young researchers must master the basics of modern bioanalytics. In the course, which has been offered for ten years, many advances have been made in the analysis of samples," said Dr. Stefan Lehr, organizer of the workshop.

During an afternoon of lectures, various speakers conveyed the basics and applications of modern bioanalytics. The Rainbow Lecture "Proteomic strategies to study stem cell aging" was held by Dr. Alessandro Ori, Leibniz Institute on Aging. In the practical part of the workshop, the twelve young investigators tested their own samples and familiarized themselves with new techniques under professional guidance. In addition to practical tips and advice on sample preparation, the participants received comprehensive information on protein analysis using a mass spectrometer. "The interdisciplinary exchange among young scientists is important because it facilitates new ideas and approaches for diabetes research," said Professor Michael Roden, MD, scientific director and member of the board of the German Diabetes Center (DDZ).

The workshop is organized in cooperation with the companies ThermoFisher Scientific and Biognosys. It covers theoretical and practical aspects of complex work processes in bioanalytics. A special focus is on quantitative protein mass spectrometry and data analysis.

Part of the Training & Education Program of the DZD
The Rainbow Workshop is part of the Training & Education Program of the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD). It is open to young international scientists from any institution. Since 2009, it has been held annually at the DDZ, Institute for Clinical Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry, under the organizational direction of Dr. Stefan Lehr with changing topics of bioanalytics.