New handheld analyser to transform point-of-care testing
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Dutch researchers have developed a unique biosensor technology that could bring complex diagnostic tests out of the lab and into the patient’s bedside and at home.
The ‘Magnotech’ technology, developed by scientists at Philips Research (Netherlands), uses magnetic nanoparticles to measure molecules in the patient’s blood or saliva for biomarkers – and gives results in a few minutes.
The potential speed, ease of use, robustness and accuracy of this new technology could address the requirements of critical care environments by speeding up the diagnosis of life-threatening diseases, the researchers say.
In addition, it could be suitable for monitoring chronically ill patients at home.
“Magnotech opens the door for change, and moves tests out of the lab,” explains Marcel van Kasteel, Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Philips Handheld Immunoassays.
His team is working on a proof-of-concept handheld analyser that uses the technology.
The prototype uses a disposable biosensor cartridge, which automatically fills itself from a single drop of blood or saliva.
Currently, measuring low concentrations of biomarkers for the diagnosis of disease (such as cardiovascular diseases) requires laboratory analysis and large sample volumes; and it delivers results in 30-60 minutes.
The device that Philips is working on – its researchers say – can work with a fingerpick drop of blood or saliva; can measure for multiple biomarkers at the same time; and gives results in as little as 1-5 minutes.
The analyser was successful in lab tests to detect myocardial infarction (heart attack) in under five minutes – 100 times faster than conventional technologies.
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Mumbai Mirror - New handheld analyser to transform point-of-care testing, Tech - TechTalk,Mumbai Mirror |
