Bio-X has developed a multi-purpose analyser that uses an ion-sensitive field effect transistor (ISFET) sensor to measure reaction activity, including bioactivity and electrochemical activity.
Bioactivity, such as enzymatic and metabolic reactions of proteins, can be analysed at high sensitivity by converting the ion change in the bioactivity reaction directly to an electric signal in real-time.
Electrochemical activity such as redox reactions can be analysed in a similar fashion.
The instrument has undergone internal testing and extended external validation by an independent service laboratory in Singapore.
This new system converts ionic charge directly to electric signals without any complicated processes.
This yields test methods that are simpler and more accurate than conventional titration, colorimetric and luminescence analysis.
Where spectroscopic systems require time-consuming and often complex colouring processes, the Amis device can directly assess underlying colour-change reactions, yielding results in shorter time-spans with more accuracy while requiring less reagent.
This new system has the potential to realise the 'easy measurement' of reaction activity thought to be difficult or impossible via conventional methods.
During the development of the new system, Bio-X has developed early positive results with a wide range of targets, including clinic test items (glucose, urea, glycerol and creatinine), alcohol, aldehyde and ATPase.
In each case, the Bio-X Amis test has generated similar or better results than conventional methods.
Bio-X has had particular success with hydrophobic compositions such as neutral fat and cholesterol, which are difficult to measure.
Measurements have also been made with high sensitivity by detecting esterase reactions.
Research work is still underway to expand its library of applications.
