Platform Technology
Platform Technology
To improve the performance and functionality of LFDs, our modular LFD platform distinguishes itself by using aptamers as antigen-recognition elements and by detecting up to 20 different biomarkers and enabling the versatility of detecting both antigens and nucleic acids.
This allows us to address the translation gap of ongoing biomarker research into diagnostics and the lack of multiplex point-of-care (POC) diagnostics.
Why aptamers?
As an alternative to antibodies as target detection elements, Hutano uses aptamers – synthetic ssDNA sequences that bind to specific targets with high affinity. This allows us to exploit the advantageous characteristics of aptamers for LFD development.
- Lower cost of synthesis, ease of scaling up and batch to batch consistency (due to in vitro synthesis)
- Wider range of targets (not limited to immunogenic targets, able to detect peptides, cells, tissues, small molecules)
- Higher specificity
- Shorter R&D time (~3 months)
- No requirement for temperature control
- Theoretically indefinite shelf life
Multiplex diagnostics
Detecting a single biomarker alone is insufficient for the screening or diagnosis of diseases Currently, multiplex diagnostics are conducted using complex lab equipment, are expensive and have a long turnaround time. This underlies our commitment to developing an in expensive, easy to use multiplex LFD as a POC diagnostic.
Our Modular LFD platform
In our modular LFD platform, multiple different aptamers, regardless of their target, can be immobilized onto the same strip in any desired pattern to enable multiplexing in a plug-and-play fashion.
- The platform consists of apta-sensors tagged onto gold nanoparticles deposited on the conjugate pad, and apta-captures immobilized onto the nitrocellulose membrane via a chemical modification to ensure a directional and covalent binding.
- To enable multiplexing, various different apta-captures can be immobilised onto the membrane.
- We have worked to carefully optimize the production and deposition of apta-sensors and apta-captures to produce an aptamer-based, multiplex, configurable LFD platform which overcomes the limitations of current LFDs.
The platform will be paired with a smartphone reader which scans and interprets the results to connect to the healthcare system and enable the user to obtain information on the next steps.
These LFDs in the hands of patients or primary care workers would be an early warning system that enables faster diagnosis and treatment optimisation, thereby reducing disease severity and cost.
