Large Molecules Analysis & Characterization Testing Services

Analytical services for biopharmaceutical products Immediate handling of your samples
5200 m² laboratory
5200 m² laboratory + 99% of services are provided in-house
More than 140 people
More than 140 people at your service
Accredited laboratory
Accredited laboratory COFRAC ISO 17025
+2200 clients
+2200 clients in France and abroad

Large Molecule Analysis

The landscape of modern medicine is increasingly dominated by large molecules (Biologics). Unlike small molecules synthesized chemically, biologics such as Monoclonal Antibodies (mAbs), Recombinant Proteins, ADCs, and Gene Therapies are produced in living systems. This inherent complexity leads to heterogeneity and stability challenges that require sophisticated analytical strategies.

FILAB supports biopharmaceutical companies throughout the drug development lifecycle. We provide comprehensive analytical testing services to characterize the structure, purity, potency, and safety of your large molecule candidates, ensuring compliance with ICH Q6B and EMA/FDA guidelines.

Our comprehensive testing services for Biologics

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Structural Characterization (ICH Q6B)

Understanding the molecule’s "fingerprint" is the first step in proving identity and comparability.

Primary Structure: Amino acid sequencing (De Novo), peptide mapping, and N/C-terminal sequencing.

Higher-Order Structure (HOS): Assessment of secondary and tertiary structures via CD, FTIR, and disulfide bridge analysis

Post-Translational Modifications (PTMs): Detailed analysis of glycosylation (N-glycans), oxidation, and deamidation.

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Purity & Impurity Testing

Safety is paramount. We detect and quantify both product-related and process-related impurities

Aggregates & Fragments: Analysis by SEC-MALS and AUC (Analytical Ultracentrifugation)

Process Residuals: DNA, antibiotics, antifoams, and leachables from single-use systems

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Physicochemical Properties

Defining the physical behavior of your drug substance

Molecular Weight: Intact mass analysis by High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (Orbitrap/QTOF)

Charge Variants: Capillary Isoelectric Focusing (cIEF) and Ion Exchange Chromatography (IEX)

Extinction Coefficient: Determination for accurate concentration measurement

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Potency & Binding Assays

Confirming that the molecule works as intended

Cell-Based Assays: Bioassays to measure biological activity (upon request/feasibility)

Our technical resources

Our 5200 m² laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation dedicated to large molecule analysis:

LC-MS/MS (Q-TOF, Orbitrap)

sequencing and identification

UPLC, HPLC (SEC, IEX, RP, HIC)

purity and separation

CD, FTIR, UV-Vis

structural integrity

Discover our case study

ADC Analysis: key questions & answers

Learn more

Why choose FILAB ?

  • Integrated Expertise
  • Regulatory compliance: all services are performed in an ISO 17025 accredited environment, with GMP context
  • Method lifecycle management: from early feasibility and method development to full ICH Q2 validation and transfer.
  • Agility & Consulting: direct access to PhD-level experts who help you design the right study for your specific phase (Pre-clinical, Phase I-III).

Our FAQ

What types of large molecules do you handle?

We have extensive experience with Monoclonal Antibodies (mAbs), Bispecifics, Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs), Fusion Proteins, Biosimilars, and Peptides.

Can you support Biosimilarity studies?

Yes. We perform head-to-head comparability studies (Biosimilar vs. Reference Product) to demonstrate high similarity in physicochemical and structural attributes, a key requirement for regulatory approval.

Do you offer GMP batch release testing?

Absolutely. We can act as your external QC laboratory for GMP release testing of Drug Substance (DS) and Drug Product (DP), including identity, purity, and safety tests.

How do you handle method transfer?

We follow a structured transfer protocol (checking robustness, precision, and accuracy) to ensure your existing methods perform correctly in our facility, minimizing downtime in your project.

 

How to get a quote with FILAB?

To get a quote, you can contact our team via our contact form, by phone, or by email.
Simply send us your requirements (material type, desired analysis, specific standards, urgency, number of samples, etc.). We will then send you a personalized technical and price proposal within 24 to 48 hours.

What is the typical turnaround time for analysis?

Turnaround times vary depending on the nature of the analysis and the complexity of the project.
However, FILAB is committed to providing fast results tailored to your industrial constraints and urgent needs.

The filab advantages
A highly qualified team
A highly qualified team
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
Responsiveness in responding to and processing requests
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
A COFRAC ISO 17025 accredited laboratory
(Staves available on www.cofrac.com - Accreditation number: 1-1793)
A complete analytical facility of 5,200m²
A complete analytical facility of 5,200m²
Tailor-made support
Tailor-made support
Video debriefing available with the expert
Video debriefing available with the expert
Anaïs DECAUX Customer Support Manager
Ask for your quote