Background:

Current immunoassay methods often rely on magnetic beads for sample collection and signal amplification, typically employing colorimetric detection based on enzymatic reactions. This approach raises stability concerns and is not ideal for field analysis due to the necessity of lasers for ionization in mass spectrometric platforms. There is a pressing need for more stable, efficient, and field-compatible methods for disease biomarker detection. The innovative use of thread as a substrate for immunoassay and ambient ionization addresses these challenges by offering a large surface area for antibody immobilization, easy separation of captured biomarkers, and direct detection and quantification of analytes. This technology is expected to significantly impact clinical settings and portable mass spectrometry applications.

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Technology Overview:

Researchers at the Ohio State University have developed a groundbreaking method that leverages thread as a medium for sample collection and a substrate for ionization of collected analytes. Traditional immunoassay techniques face limitations such as stability issues and the need for complex equipment. This new technology addresses these challenges by using thread, which provides a large surface area for antibody immobilization and facilitates easy separation of captured biomarkers without the need for magnetic fields. The thread-based system enables direct detection and quantification of analytes through optimized ionization mechanisms, including electrospray ionization and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization. This approach offers a user-friendly, portable solution that is compatible with clinical settings and enhances the efficiency of disease biomarker detection.

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Benefits:

• Performance improvements: Enhanced sensitivity and specificity in disease biomarker detection.
• Cost-effectiveness: Reduced need for complex and expensive equipment.
• Versatility: Applicable in various clinical and field settings.
• Ease of use: Simple setup requiring only a single thread and glass capillary.

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Patent

US Issued 12169197