Chiral analysis is an analytical technique for separating and quantifying the enantiomers of a chiral molecule. A chiral molecule has two mirror-image forms, called enantiomers, which are not superimposable. Although they have the same chemical formula, these two forms can have very different properties in an industrial environment:
The aim of a chiral analysis is to distinguish the enantiomers present in a mixture, and then to measure their proportion precisely, in order to verify the enantiomeric purity of the substance analyzed.
This type of analysis is particularly important in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and chemical synthesis, where the stereochemistry of molecules has a direct impact on product efficacy, safety and stability.
In pharmaceuticals, chiral analysis is essential to guarantee the safety and efficacy of a drug.
It enables the enantiomers of a chiral molecule to be separated and quantified: one may have a therapeutic effect, the other none at all, or even undesirable side effects. Chiral analysis is a regulatory requirement under ICH standards.
In the cosmetics sector, chiral analysis is used to control the quality of active ingredients used in formulas.
Two forms of the same ingredient can behave very differently: in terms of efficacy, skin absorption or stability. Chiral analysis guarantees consistent product performance.
In the field of fine chemistry and organic synthesis, chiral analysis enables the development of stereoselective synthesis routes, i.e. those capable of promoting the formation of a specific enantiomer.
It is also used to characterize intermediates and specialty chemicals, to verify their stereochemical composition. Finally, it contributes to controlling the quality and yield of chiral reactions, by ensuring precise monitoring of process selectivity.
The FILAB laboratory has a full range of analytical equipment and a team of doctors and engineers specialized in organic chemistry and stereochemistry for chiral laboratory analysis. We master every stage of the process, from method development to validation in accordance with current standards.
Each request is treated on an individual basis: understanding your matrix, your challenges, and proposing a suitable method, whether for quality control, development, or production issues.
Whether in the R&D, industrialization or batch control phases, or in the event of non-conformity, FILAB will support you at every stage with responsiveness and rigor.
What’s more, thanks to the diversity of our techniques, we can cross-reference chiral data with other structural or physico-chemical analysis, for an overall understanding of your substances (purity, stability, interactions…).
The laboratory can develop a chiral analysis method tailored to your matrix and your specific needs, whether for a product under development or a marketed product.
Some enantiomers may undergo racemization under certain conditions (heat, pH, solvent...), which may affect the efficacy or safety of a product. A chiral stability study may therefore be necessary.
Solutions exist for selectively extracting analytes of interest, even from difficult matrices (cosmetics, food, polymers, etc.).
Absolutely. Chiral analysis can be coupled with :
