--- type: "WebPage" title: "Analysis and characterization of mRNA in the laboratory" description: "Do you want to analyze and characterize your mRNA molecules? What is messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) analysis and characterization? mRNA characterization includes an in-depth analysis of its sequence, purity, and structural integrity. This process also includes the identification of impurities..." resource: "https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/biopharmaceutical/characterisation-of-cell-and-gene-therapy-products/analysis-characterization-mrna/" tags: ["EN", "pll_6715ee6c85a73", "Anaïs DECAUX"] timestamp: "2026-07-28T15:11:29Z" published: "2024-10-21T06:02:19Z" language: "en" author: "bwa" --- # Analysis and characterization of mRNA in the laboratory ## Do you want to analyze and characterize your mRNA molecules? ### What is messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) analysis and characterization? mRNA **characterization** includes an in-depth analysis of its sequence, purity, and structural integrity. This process also includes the identification of impurities that may come from transcription, degradation, or residual components from the manufacturing process, as well as the validation of chemical modifications (such as the 5’ cap, polyadenylation, and nucleoside modifications) that increase mRNA stability and translation efficiency. The techniques commonly used for these analysis include [mass spectrometry (LC-MS)](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-mass-spectrometry.md), [liquid chromatography (HPLC)](https://filab.fr/nos-moyens-techniques/laboratoire-analysis-chromatographie-liquide-hplc/), and capillary electrophoresis (CE). Particular attention is also paid to the secondary structure of mRNA, its immunogenicity, and its degradation patterns, which are crucial to its therapeutic efficacy. ## Our solutions for mRNA analysis and characterization ### Why choose FILAB? At the [FILAB](https://filab.fr/) laboratory, we offer comprehensive analytical services tailored to the specific needs of mRNA-based products. Thanks to our expertise in RNA technologies, we support you in the development, validation, and quality control of your mRNA molecules, in compliance with current regulations. We provide tailor-made solutions at every stage of the development process, from mRNA synthesis to production, to ensure that critical quality attributes are met and that the therapeutic efficacy of your products is guaranteed. ## Our technical capabilities [### LC-MS mass spectrometry](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/altis-lc-msms-analysis.md) [### Liquid chromatography (HPLC)](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-analysis-uplc.md) [### Nanopore](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/nanopore-sequencing.md) [### Fluorimeter](https://filab.fr/en/our-technical-resources/laboratory-fluorometer-analysis.md) [### Nanodrop](https://filab.fr/en/dna-rna-and-protein-analysis-by-nanodrop-in-the-laboratory.md) ## mRNA analysis and characterization services ### Sequence and structure characterization: Sequence analysis by LC-MS/MS Analysis of truncated or degraded mRNA products [Determination of intact mass](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/biopharmaceutical/intact-mass-analysis-laboratory.md) : molecular mass by HRMS and SEC-triple detection (LALS-RALS/UV/RI) Verification of modifications (5’ capping, poly(A) length, nucleoside modifications) Primary sequence: [de novo sequencing](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/biopharmaceutical/biotherapeutic-recombinant-protein-characterization/de-novo-protein-sequencing.md) Secondary and tertiary structure: [circular dichroism (CD)](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/biopharmaceutical/measurement-circular-dichroism-cd.md) ### Caractérisation des propriétés physico-chimiques We provide detailed data on the molecular weight, size, and structural stability of mRNA: [Molecular weight and size (LC-MS)](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/chemical-analysis-laboratory/analysis-and-measurement-of-molecular-weight-in-the-laboratory.md) Secondary structure analysis (UV/visible spectroscopy) [Measurement of the extinction coefficient](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/biopharmaceutical/protein-molar-extinction-coefficient-determination.md) Chromatographic profile (HPLC): characteristic liquid fingerprint by IEX or [SEC](https://filab.fr/nos-moyens-techniques/laboratoire-analysis-gpc-sec/) Solubility: critical concentration and solution stability [RNA concentration and purity](https://filab.fr/en/dna-rna-and-protein-analysis-by-nanodrop-in-the-laboratory.md) (NanoDrop) ### Identification et quantification des impuretés : [Impuretés](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/laboratory-detection-identification-impurities.md) résiduelles liées aux procédés (HPLC, LC-MS) Analysis of degradation products ([enzymatic](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/biopharmaceutical/biotherapeutic-recombinant-protein-characterization/enzyme-analysis.md) or chemical) Analysis of elemental impurities ([ICH Q3D](https://filab.fr/nos-prestations/analyse/laboratoire-analysis-ich-q3d/), [USP 233](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/analysis-usp-233-laboratory.md)) Analysis of solvent residues and culture medium (cell culture): [amino acid quantification](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-analysis-services/chemical-analysis-laboratory/analysis-amino-acids/study-amino-acids.md), residual vitamins and saccharides Transcription by-products [Detection and quantification of HCP (Host Cell Protein)](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/biopharmaceutical/host-cell-protein-hcp-testing-analysis-laboratory.md) [Extractables & Leachables](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-extractable-leachable-testing.md) ### Purity and heterogeneity characterization Aggregate quantification Charge variant analysis We also guarantee compliance with [ICH and USP standards](https://filab.fr/nos-prestations/analyse/laboratoire-analysis-ich-q3d/), offering specific tests to assess the presence of elemental impurities, [residual solvents](https://filab.fr/secteur-activite/analyse-industrie-pharmaceutique/laboratoire-analysis-ich-q3c/), and other contaminants. Our services include stability testing and immunogenicity assessment, which are essential to ensuring the safety of mRNA-based products. ## Our FAQ Why perform messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) analysis and characterization Analysis and characterization of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) are essential steps to ensure the quality, efficacy, and safety of mRNA-based therapies, such as [vaccines](https://filab.fr/en/our-services/our-expertise-services/laboratory-analysis-injectable-drugs/laboratory-for-the-analysis-of-injectable-products-and-pharmaceutical-vaccines.md) and [gene therapies](https://filab.fr/en/sectors-of-activity/biopharmaceutical/characterisation-of-cell-and-gene-therapy-products.md). mRNA-based technologies have gained importance, particularly in the development of vaccines and treatments for various diseases, including COVID-19. mRNA production requires precise control of its synthesis, sequence, and structure to ensure optimal performance in biological systems. How can i get a quote from FILAB? To get a quote, you can contact our teams via our contact form, by phone, or by email. All you need to do is send us your requirements (material type, analysis requested, any applicable standard, urgency, number of samples, etc.). We will then send you a tailored technical and pricing proposal within 24-48 hours. What is the typical turnaround time for analysis? Lead times vary depending on the nature of the analysis and the complexity of the expert assessment project. However, FILAB is committed to providing fast turnaround times adapted to your constraints and industrial urgencies. ![](https://filab.fr/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/arn.png)