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20th November 2008

Cambridge Consultants module paves the way for the next generation of medical diagnostics

• Compact, versatile instruments based on this module will enable the development of lower-cost analysers with higher throughput, suitable for the clinical laboratory or the point of care

Cambridge Consultants has developed a novel detection module based on low cost opto-electronics that could enable the development of the next generation of analysers for use in either a clinical laboratory setting or at the point of care.  This enabling technology is an innovative application of Cambridge Consultants' multiple wavelength droplet sizing technology launched earlier this year. 

This patented technology is based on a compact unit that allows for the detection of multiple assays simultaneously.  It derives from Cambridge Consultant's multi-disciplinary expertise in optical systems, electronic signal processing and advanced mathematical modelling of physical phenomena like particle scattering.  It has the potential to transform point of care testing, to offer the breadth of testing seen in a clinical analyser, or increase the performance and throughput of a clinical analyser, or reduce footprint.

Dr. Robert Jones, Senior Consultant at Cambridge Consultants comments: “We now have a single, easily manufactured module that will measure turbidity and fluorescence at multiple wavelengths, thereby paving the way for a wide range of possibilities in the next generation of point of care testing and analysis.”

The detection module incorporates a combination of spatially separated optical channels and time multiplexed operation that enables high-speed detection of multiple labels at a single station. It integrates in a single form the same functionality that normally occupies several modules in traditional laboratory analysis equipment, significantly enhancing both compactness and flexibility.  The analyser can cover the entire spectrum from ultra-violet to infrared, and allows the simultaneous quantitative measurement of absorption, fluorescence and phosphorescence.

Dr. Simon Burnell, Commercial Director of the Medical Technology Division at Cambridge Consultants concludes: “This application can be seamlessly integrated into existing analysers, or be used as the basis for a new system.  We can offer fast track development, enabling prototype units to be ready for testing within a period of six months to a year.  We are in the process of identifying suitable partners to take the system to market.”

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