Enhanced PCR Beads Simplify Molecular Diagnostic Assays

Enhanced polymerase chain reaction (PCR) beads provide a complete assay in an extremely easy-to-use format with a much simplified workflow compared to some currently available molecular diagnostics.

The new all-in-one beads, ReaX MDx, eliminate the need for temperature-controlled logistics--making them particularly suitable for oncology, infectious disease assays, and point-of-care (POC) formats.

Produced from organic and hydrogel polymers in Q Chip's (Cardiff, UK) MicroPlant microfluidic device, the beads are uniform (< 2% variability) and encapsulate all reagents needed to perform the diagnostic assay. This means that ReaX MDx assays require minimal user input, time, and skill level giving results that are accurate and reproducible every time, no matter where or by whom the assay is performed. The MicroPlant production technology also offers significant benefits compared to conventional microencapsulation processes, such as ultra-low wastage, uniform dosing and morphology, and low process costs.

According to Q Chip CEO Mark Barry, ReaX MDx offers the first real alternative to lyophilization. "In addition, the beads meet other requirements in the fast growing molecular diagnostics market sector, such as assay simplification combined with reproducible results.”

Q Chip Ltd, a life-science company, develops precision microsphere-based packaging products for the diagnostic, medical device, and pharmaceutical, markets. The MicroPlant platform uses Q Chip's microfluidic technology to enable the production of commercial volumes of uniform, loaded microcapsules using a wide range of biocompatible polymers.


Related Links:
Q Chip