Hemp Research Using a Nitrogen Laser
A recent study focused on the chemical variety and diversity of hemp seeds (achenes). Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) has been a cornerstone of human nutrition and medicine for over 4,500 years, and on occasion, a guest at some interesting parties. Yet, despite its long history, the precise “where” and “what” of its bioactive compounds remained surprisingly a mystery — until now. The results of a Chinese study, entitled “Metabolomic Diversity and Spatial Localization of Bioactive Compounds in Hemp Achenes from Diverse Landraces” has mapped the metabolomic landscape, or chemical status report, of 20 diverse hemp landraces (time capsules of genetic history), revealing how phenotype (size and color) dictates chemical richness.
The breakthrough in this research was powered by Atmospheric Pressure Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry Imaging (AP-MALDI-MSI). The MNL 106 nitrogen laser (part of the MNL 100 suite) from LTB Lasertechnik Berlin was an integral part of the setup. It allowed precision imaging by focusing its laser beam to an optical diameter of just 10 μm, enabling the team to distinguish between the hull, endosperm, and cotyledon at a microscopic level. Operating at a wavelength of 337 nm, this laser provided the energy necessary to desorb and ionize 55 different compounds, including phenethylamines, flavonoids, and cannabinoids, directly from the tissue without prior labeling. Because of these capabilities, researchers discovered that bioactive metabolites are not just “in the seed,” but they are strategically compartmentalized, and surprisingly, predominantly accumulating in the hulls.
The results also showed that dark-colored and small seeds accumulated significantly higher levels of protective polyphenols and certain cannabinoids, compared to their larger or lighter counterparts. Hemp hulls, often discarded during oil and protein processing, were revealed as the “treasure chest” of the seed’s bioactivity. The scientists believe that these insights now provide a roadmap for the future of hemp-derived medicinal products and high-performance functional foods.
It turns out that while some were busy debating the “recreational” leaves and buds, the real chemical complexity was hiding in the “waste” hulls all along. Sometimes, you just need the right laser to see the light.
About the MNL 100 Nitrogen Laser
The MNL 100 nitrogen laser from LTB Lasertechnik Berlin represents the cutting edge in compact UV lasers. It does not need an external gas supply. With a total volume of less than 3 liters, it weighs approximately 3.5 kg.
Features of the MNL 100 include:
- Wavelength of 337.1 nm
- Up to 130 µJ pulse energy
- Extremely long operating life due to a sealed discharge cartridge in metal-ceramic technology
- High precision through a directly switching solid-state power switch
- Warranty for 60 million pulses
- Patented
- Certifications: CE, ETL-Report No. 05KFI005386 (UL, CSA, VDE, Semco), ROHS, FDA
- Compatible with VSL337i OEM, VSL-337-ND
For more information or a quotation for LTB products, contact IL Photonics.