PRODUCTS

Lab-on-a-chip (LOC) system

The current chip lay-out consists of four independent (micro-)fluidic channels, each containing a so-called sensing window. At least one of these channels is used as a reference channel, whereas the other three can be used as measurement channels which enable the simultaneous detection of three different analytes. This is done by pre-coating each measurement channel with a unique receptor layer. This receptor, e.g. an antibody, specifically binds one type (or class) of micro-organisms, such as viruses, bacteria, yeasts, fungi or small parasites. Next to micro-organisms, Ostendum’s lab-on-a-chip also enables to detect one (type of) biomarker in one particular measurement channel, such as proteins or DNA/RNA molecules. When a suitable specific receptor is at hand, Ostendum’s lab-on-a-chip is especially suited to specifically bind nano-particles in a measurement channel.

In the near future and at request, more measurement channels can be made available on one lab-on-a-chip system, such to enable panel testing, i.e. simultaneous multiple analyte testing with one chip only.

Diagram (Left) and photo (Right) of Ostendum's lab-on-a-chip system.

Chip loader and detector

Late May 2009, Ostendum finished its first detector prototypes. These detectors not only enable to analyse samples regarding the presence and the concentrations of micro-organisms or biomarkers, but also function as chip loaders for Ostendum’s lab-on-a-chip systems.

Picture of the first portable detector and LOC system prototype.

Chip loading and flushing (cleansing)

A simple user interface at the touch screen of the detector enables one to selectively flush one channel on the chip, whether a reference or a measurement channel. Each detector has a (micro-)pump which allows one to specifically address the channels on the chip, either temporarily or with a continuous flow. In this way, the user can pre-load the lab-on-a-chip system with receptors that suit his /her needs. This same flushing function can also be used to clean one or more particular channels and re-use the chip for another round of measurements.

Sample detection within minutes or in-line, real-time continuous monitoring

Once the chips are satisfactorily pre-coated with the selected receptors, one can offer the samples containing the test fluid to the (micro-)fluidic inlet of the detector. This can also be done continuously, which enables one to monitor in-line and at real time. Once the detector is set to the specific receptor-analyte combination for each of the measurement channels, the analysis can start. Ostendum’s detector will automatically analyse the optical effects at the sensing windows and from changes in these effects, the detector will not only tell you whether or not a particular analyte is present, but it will also determine its concentration in the sample for you. This whole process will only take several minutes per measurement (depending on the volume of the sample).

Schematic representation of the measuring procedure performed with the lab-on-a-chip interferometric biosensor device.

Facilitating the transition from professional lab settings to on-site diagnosis

Whereas the detector is portable and Ostendum will in the future duly pay attention to the total weight and power requirement of the detector, the Ostendum detector can be used on site, placed at the physician or eventually even in the home.