A single biomarker is often insufficient to identify a given
disease with both sensitivity and specificity. In such cases, one or more
additional tests for other biomarkers are used in order to accurately diagnose
the disease. The disadvantage of this process is that multiple sensors, wells,
platforms, and/or labels are frequently required to measure the different
biomarkers.
Researchers at the School of Biological & Health Systems
Engineering of Arizona State University and the Biodesign Institute have
developed a modified electrochemical impedance spectroscopy sensor and methods
for its use in multiplexing the signal from an assay. Using this technology,
multiple biomarkers can be simultaneously measured. This is accomplished without
labels and with a single sensor.
The new techniques permit the design and use of orthogonal
assays for multiple biomarkers without the cost and complexity of using multiple
sensors, labels, wells, platforms, and/or instrumentation.
Potential Applications
Screening for prostate and breast cancer
More accurate monitoring of type II diabetes without
additional finger pricking
Detection of other conditions having known biomarkers, such
as other cancers, autoimmune diseases, bacterial and viral infections,
cardiovascular diseases, etc.
Use in high throughput screening of biomarkers for diseases
Assess therapeutic efficacy during treatment
Benefits and Advantages
- More robust and simpler than current orthogonal assays
- Does not require a second sensor or platform
- Labels not required
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