DESCRIPTION

The Evidence performs simultaneous quantitative detection of a wide test menu across the full Randox portfolio of biochip assays. Evidence combines the latest technological advances with innovative system design to present the world’s first Protein Biochip Array Technology system. Setting new standards in clinical analysis, evidence has the capacity to perform a test output in excess of 1200 tests per hour. Dedicated software controls all system operations from onboard maintenance to calibration validation, to patient sample profiling for a variety of tests. Biochips are 9x9mm solid substrates with multiple Discrete Test Regions (DTRs) arranged in an array on the surface. At present, Randox biochips hold 25 DTRs but, if required, the test capacity can be increased dramatically. Biochip Array Technology relies on the basic principles of immunology, using competitive and sandwich immunoassays. Horseradish peroxidase-labelled detection creates a chemiluminescent signal at each DTR, all of which are simultaneously measured by the CCD camera and interpreted by the analyser software. The technology is based on a novel concept using a biochip as a reaction platform, with multiple specific ligands (antibodies or antigens) attached at pre-defined sites on the surface. After addition of a patient sample to the biochip, analytes present in the sample bind to the specific ligands. The degree of binding is determined using a chemiluminescent light source and quantified using a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) camera and imaging system.Evidence won the MacRobert award, the UK's most prestigious award for innovation in engineering. The Royal Academy of Engineering selected Evidence for the award to recognise that it is innovative, will make a significant contribution to society, and will be a significant commercial success.