Unravelling the Mysteries of Proteins: Meet Aurora, by RedShiftBio

Researchers constantly seek advanced technologies to better understand the intricacies of proteins, and one such groundbreaking innovation is the RedShiftBio Aurora Microfluidic Modulation Spectroscopy (MMS) System.

Protein structure is directly related to its function in cells, and so understanding protein structure is crucial in many fields ranging from drug development to food science. The ability to detect the slightest changes in biomolecule higher-order structure allows the identification of the molecules, formulations, and conditions which are most likely to lead to stable drug and food products.

Traditionally, protein analysis has been a complex and time-consuming process, often requiring large sample quantities and intricate procedures. This challenge has spurred scientists to seek innovative solutions, and the Aurora MMS System by RedShiftBio is at the forefront of this protein analysis revolution.

The Aurora MMS System: A Game Changer in Protein Analysis

Aurora is powered by Microfluidic Modulation Spectroscopy (MMS) and provides ultra-sensitive, ultra-precise structural analysis of a wide range of biomolecules like proteins, peptides, antibodies, mRNA, ADCs, and AAVs. It measures structural changes due to buffer/pH/formulation, stress, point mutations, binding partners, and storage conditions. When compared to CD or FTIR, MMS can detect structural change 20x faster and with 30x greater sensitivity*. MMS combines a high-power Quantum Cascade Laser with real-time buffer referencing. This provides the power to analyse both low- and high-concentration samples, in formulation buffer without excipient interference, to detect small but critical structural changes.

The Benefits of Aurora MMS

What sets this system apart is its ability to perform these analyses with minimal sample requirements (50µL of sample), high sensitivity and exceptional accuracy — all within an automated space-saving unit that is simple to operate. The Aurora MMS system provides a wealth of information about the protein’s secondary structure, allowing users to gain insights into its folding, stability, and conformation. Proteins can be analysed at concentrations as low as 0.2 mg/mL to >200 mg/ml, a capability that was once considered impossible with traditional methods.

The Science Behind Aurora MMS: How It Works

Microfluidic Modulation Spectroscopy (MMS) technology combines mid-infrared laser spectroscopy with microfluidics, built-in real time referencing and advanced signal processing to provide high sensitivity measurements with no buffer interference. The tuneable laser in the secondary structure analysis tools probes the protein solution through a microfluidic cell. Sample and reference (buffer) streams rapidly alternate to continuously allow background subtraction, dramatically improving measurement precision, accuracy, and signal-to-noise.

Structure, Stability, Similarity, and Stress Characterisation of a commercial mAb and Two Biosimilar Drugs Using MMS — presented at Formulation and Delivery 2023 in San Diego!

Biologic drugs are complex and difficult to replicate, however, a biosimilar can be approved if it is shown to be highly similar to the originator. In this study, MMS was used to: 1) show the structural similarity between a commercial mAb and two research-grade biosimilar drugs, 2) compare their structure in different formulations, and 3) test their stability under different stress conditions. None of the three drugs showed structural differences in different buffers, but heat stress had a greater structural effect on the commercial mAb in PBS than in formulation buffer. Future work will replicate the heat stress study with the biosimilars to understand their thermal stability (https://bit.ly/3PLCfe8).

In a world where proteins are the key to unlocking scientific mysteries and therapeutic applications, the Aurora MMS System is illuminating the path toward a brighter and more informed future. With its capacity to reveal the hidden secrets of proteins, it stands as a testament to the power of MMS technology and the potential for advancing protein therapeutics. To request a demo, proof-of-concept, or a discussion on how MMS can enhance your research or product development goals, please contact ATA Scientific at +61 2 9541 3500 or enquiries@atascientific.com.au.

^{*Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jan 2020}