#USA #Milford #Waters Corporation #omniDAWN #light scattering

Waters Corporation Unveils the omniDAWN™ MALS Photometer

Waters Corporation has made a significant stride in analytical science with the introduction of the omniDAWN™ Multi-Angle Light Scattering (MALS) Photometer. This cutting-edge device is noted for being the first extended-range MALS detector that integrates seamlessly with Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) and Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC) systems. The launch, announced on April 14, 2026, promises to revolutionize the characterization of complex molecules, especially in the biopharmaceutical sector.

Key Features of the omniDAWN™ Photometer

The omniDAWN Photometer dramatically improves analytical efficiency, providing chromatographic run times that are up to four times faster than traditional methodologies. This remarkable speed accelerates decision-making processes in various stages of drug discovery, development, and quality control workflows.

One of the standout features of the omniDAWN is its ability to deliver an incredible 10-fold improvement in absolute molar mass determination and size measurements. By expanding the sizing capabilities from roughly 50 nm to 500 nm, it empowers scientists to thoroughly characterize larger and more complex analytes, including protein aggregates and lipid nanoparticles (LNPs).

Waters Corporation’s Senior Vice President, Rob Carpio, emphasized that advances in UHPLC and UPLC separations have outstripped detector technologies until now. The omniDAWN MALS Photometer integrates advanced multi-angle light scattering with exceptional analytical performance. This enhances users’ ability to accelerate the discovery of next-generation therapies while maintaining necessary resolution and robustness.

Reducing Resource Consumption

Beyond its analytical advancements, the omniDAWN detector is designed with sustainability in mind. The device is engineered to reduce sample consumption by 30-50% and cut solvent use by approximately 40%. This not only decreases costs associated with testing but also minimizes environmental impact, aligning with growing concerns regarding sustainability in laboratory practices.

Enhanced Data Quality and Usability

The omniDAWN MALS Photometer is notable for its low dispersion design, which ensures high-resolution data across complex samples. It enables sharp separations that enhance the detection of low-level species, providing scientists improved clarity when distinguishing between monomers, aggregates, and fragments. This quality of data supports more informed decisions during critical phases of research and development.

The device is also powered by ASTRA™ Software, which consolidates extensive light scattering experience into a user-friendly interface. By combining MALS with UV and refractive index detection, ASTRA enables a robust framework for analyzing size, composition, and heterogeneity in a single run. This facilitates dedicated workflows for ADCs, LNPs, and viral vectors, reinforcing Waters Corporation's commitment to offering comprehensive analytical solutions.

According to Stacey Louie, an associate professor at the University of Houston, the extension of MALS capabilities to UHPLC and UPLC settings will enhance absolute molar mass measurements, yielding faster and more flexible separations. This leap could significantly advance understanding in fields such as drug delivery and environmental nanotechnology, enabling better health outcomes.

Availability

The omniDAWN MALS Photometer is set to be made available globally in the summer of 2026. For those interested in gaining further insight or requesting a demonstration of this innovative technology, more information can be found on the Waters website.

As the need for rapid and accurate characterization of biologics continues to grow, the omniDAWN succeeds in establishing itself as an essential tool for laboratories focused on advancing their workflows and analytical capabilities.