Fourier Transform Infrared Microscopy

Method Introduction

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microscopy combines the power of an optical microscope with the analytical capabilities of FTIR spectroscopy. This combination is very useful for particle characterization and identification.

A significant benefit of FTIR microscopy is the possibility of distinguishing between non-proteinaceous and proteinaceous particles and identifying the nature of the non-proteinaceous particles. Our cutting-edge equipment allows us to analyze samples without needing liquid nitrogen cooling in transmission-, reflection- and attenuated total reflection (ATR) modes. This reduces the need for sample preparation and enables a variety of applications.

To perform FTIR microscopy, (sub)visible particles in a sample are first isolated on a filter, preferably a metal-coated membrane or a gold filter. Next, bright field images are taken from the particles, and IR spectra are obtained for each particle. By using either the ATR or the transmission mode, spectra from particles as small as ca. 20 µm can obtained. Light absorption due to molecular vibration is detected in the wavelength range from 0.8 to 1000 µm (usually expressed as wavenumbers from 12,500 cm-1 to 10 cm-1). The resulting spectra are used to identify a wide range of compounds by comparing the measured spectra to spectral databases or reference compounds provided by our clients.

Applications

FTIR microscopy is very powerful for troubleshooting and root-cause analysis. Coriolis offers FTIR microscopy as a stand-alone service or as part of a particle identification study or formulation development program.

Quality and Biosafety Level

We provide all our analytical services with the highest quality standards. Experienced scientists carry out each project, and every scientific reviewer comprehensively checks every report or data presentation.

We offer this technology with the following quality and biosafety levels:

R&D level

We offer this method under R&D. Our GRP system assures the highest-quality research standards.

Up to biosafety level 2

This method can be applied to nucleic acids, viruses, cells, viral vectors, including lentiviruses and more.

Analytical Method Development, Qualification and Validation

For common sample types, we can often apply standardized methods with little setup effort. However, when needed, our experienced analytical experts create or optimize custom methods tailored to your active pharmaceutical ingredient, product type and development phase.

Method Development

Our method development approach tailors sample preparation, method settings and data analysis to the needs of your project and sample.

We include representative samples and, where available, suitable reference standards and stressed/degraded materials, allowing our analytical scientists to design a highly suitable, stability-indicating, robust and repeatable method. Upon request, we will compile a detailed description of the method for your records.

Method Qualification

Method qualification is the initial assessment of an analytical procedure’s performance to show its suitability for its intended purpose.

During method qualification, our analytical scientists perform documented testing demonstrating that the analytical procedure meets criteria in several categories. Criteria may include factors such as repeatability, specificity and robustness. We compile a qualification plan and report, including all relevant data.

Method Validation

Under GMP conditions, method validation confirms that an analytical procedure’s performance suits its intended purpose. Depending on the method’s scope, a broad range of method characteristics, such as specificity, accuracy, precision, limit of detection/limit of quantification (LOD/LOQ), linearity and range, is considered.

During method validation, our analytical scientists perform documented testing demonstrating that the analytical procedure consistently produces a result that meets the predetermined acceptance criteria. We compile a validation plan and report that includes all relevant data.

Depending on the development phase, a fit-for-purpose validation approach can be offered, adjusting the validation required efforts in a phase-appropriate way to meet the method’s needs.

Method Verification

Compendial method verification confirms that a compendial method (e.g., from Ph. Eur. or USP) is suitable and reliable for its intended purpose under the specific conditions of the laboratory.

Unlike full method validation, compendial method verification is often considered a partial validation since the method has already undergone extensive testing and validation during its inclusion in the compendium. The extent of method verification depends on the type of method.

During method verification, our analytical scientists perform documented testing demonstrating that the developed analytical method performs adequately for the specific product or matrix being tested and within the specific laboratory where the method will be employed.

Talk to Our Experts or Request a Quote

Our expert team is ready to answer your questions and guide you to the services best suited to your program’s modality, stage and challenge. If your needs are well-defined, we’ll begin the quotation process.

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