Femke Karina de Theije

Scanning probe measurements on a magnetic bead biosensor

We experimentally demonstrate the sensitivity of an integrated detection scheme for small superparamagnetic beads, intended for medical diagnostic applications. Detection is based on the giant magnetoresistance effect of a 100×3μm2 magnetic multilayer strip. A conductive wire to magnetize the superparamagnetic beads is integrated on the same substrate. By scanning a single bead over the wires and sensor strip using an atomic force microscope, we simultaneously measure topography and sensor resistivity in a three-dimensional volume above the sensor. The observations can be explained well by means of the macroscopically measured sensor resistivity curve and the magnetization of the beads, combined with the Biot-Savart law for the magnetic field of the wire. From these encouraging results, we project that it is possible to detect even a single 300nm superparamagnetic bead on our sensor.

Analytical evaluation of a new point of care system for measuring cardiac Troponin I.

OBJECTIVES Point-of-care cardiac troponin testing with adequate analytical performances has the potential to improve chest pain patients flow in the emergency department. We present the analytical evaluation of the newly developed Philips Minicare cTnI point-of-care immunoassay. DESIGN & METHODS Li-heparin whole blood and plasma were used to perform analytical studies. The sample type comparison study was performed at 4 different hospitals. The 99th percentile upper reference limit (URL) study was performed using Li-heparin plasma, Li-heparin whole blood and capillary blood samples from 750 healthy adults, aging from 18 to 86years. RESULTS Limit of the blank, limit of detection and limit of quantitation at 20% coefficient of variation (CV) were determined to be 8.5ng/L, 18ng/L and 38ng/L respectively without significant differences between whole blood and plasma for LoQ. Cross-reactivity and interferences were minimal and no high-dose hook was observed. Total CV was found to be from 7.3% to 12% for cTnI concentrations between 109.6 and 6135.4ng/L. CV at the 99th percentile URL was 18.6%. The sample type comparison study between capillary blood, Li-heparin whole blood and Li-heparin plasma samples demonstrated correlation coefficients between 0.99 and 1.00 with slopes between 1.03 and 1.08. The method comparison between Minicare cTnI and Beckman Coulter Access, AccuTnI+3 demonstrated a correlation coefficient of 0.973 with a slope of 1.09. The 99th percentile URL of a healthy population was calculated to be 43ng/L with no significant difference between genders or sample types. CONCLUSIONS The Minicare cTnI assay is a sensitive and precise, clinical usable test for determination of cTnI concentration that can be used in a near-patient setting as an aid in the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction.