Study confirms the benefits of using Exazym® in combination with an ultra-sensitive immunoassay platform
In the dynamic field of immunoassays, the quest for ultra-sensitive detection methods is paramount. The ability to accurately detect low-abundance biomarkers can significantly enhance early disease diagnosis, optimize treatment regimens, and drive forward drug discovery. Recently, a study focused on integrating Exazym®’s Binding Oligo Ladder Detection (BOLD) technology with the Gyrolab platform has demonstrated promising advancements in this area. This integration not only improves sensitivity but also proves the versatility of Exazym® technology across different immunoassay systems.
The challenge of low-abundance biomarker detection
Detecting low-abundance biomarkers remains a critical challenge in biomedical research. Traditional immunoassays often struggle to achieve the necessary sensitivity without specialized equipment and complex workflows, which can be cost-prohibitive and logistically challenging.
Integration of Exazym® with Gyrolab
The recent study aimed to implement BOLD signal amplification on the Gyrolab microfluidic platform, specifically targeting the detection of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Gyrolab, known for its automated and miniaturized immunoassays, offers a broad dynamic range and high sensitivity. The integration with BOLD technology, developed by Cavidi AB, sought to push these boundaries further.
How BOLD technology works
BOLD technology amplifies immunoassay signals using a unique mechanism:
- Hybridization: A DNA primer conjugated to a secondary antibody hybridizes with a polyriboadenylic acid (prA) template.
- Polymerization: The polymerase enzyme extends the primer, forming a hybrid DNA
strand. - Detection: Multiple antibodies conjugated with reporter molecules bind to the hybrid strand, significantly amplifying the signal.
Key findings from the Gyrolab integration study
The study evaluated the performance of BOLD technology on the Gyrolab platform using a TNF-α assay. Here are some key findings:
- Increased Sensitivity: The BOLD technology amplified the TNF-α immunoassay signals, achieving detection limits comparable to ultra-sensitive platforms like Erenna® and Simoa®. This was accomplished without the need for temperature cycling or auxiliary instruments, streamlining the workflow.
- Enhanced Signal-to-Noise Ratio: The introduction of allophycocyanin (APC) as a fluorescent conjugate, significantly improved sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratios. This enhancement allowed for more accurate and reliable detection of low-abundance biomarkers.
- Compatibility and Versatility: The study demonstrated that BOLD technology could be effectively integrated with the Gyrolab platform. This compatibility suggests that Exazym® technology can be ported to other immunoassay systems, broadening its applicability and impact.
- Efficiency and Practicality: The BOLD-amplified immunoassays on the Gyrolab platform required minimal sample volumes and had a run-time of 1–2 hours. This efficiency makes the technology accessible and practical for routine use in research settings.
Implications for Researchers
For researchers, these advancements offer several significant benefits:
- Compatibility: No matter how sensitive your current platform is, it could be further improved with minimal effort or expense by incorporating Exazym® in your workflow.
- Enhanced Research Capabilities: The ability to detect biomarkers at lower concentrations with higher accuracy opens new avenues for understanding disease mechanisms and progression.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The improved sensitivity does not require expensive specialized equipment, making high-quality research more accessible.
- Broad Applicability: The versatility of Exazym® technology across different immunoassay platforms means that researchers can integrate this powerful amplification method into their existing workflows without extensive modifications.
Conclusion
The integration of Exazym®’s BOLD technology with the Gyrolab platform marks a significant step forward in immunoassay development. By achieving ultra-sensitive detection and proving the compatibility of Exazym® technology with diverse immunoassay systems, this study paves the way for broader applications and more impactful research.
Researchers now have a practical and efficient tool to enhance their immunoassay capabilities, driving forward innovations in diagnostics, therapeutic monitoring, and drug discovery. You can read the study here. For more information on how to integrate this technology into your research, visit www.cavidi.se and discover the full potential of ultra-sensitive immunoassay amplification.