Alzheimer’s Disease, ApoE & Risk Detection
Alzheimer’s Disease, ApoE & Risk Detection
Alzheimer’s Disease, ApoE4 & Risk Detection
Alzheimer’s disease touches all of us, whether directly through an affected loved one or through its frequent presence in the news. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised by cognitive decline, memory loss, and functional impairments. It is the most common cause of dementia, affecting millions of individuals worldwide 1 and posing significant challenges to healthcare systems. As the global population ages, the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease is expected to rise, highlighting the urgent need for effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
The current methods used to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease consist of clinical assessment and supporting neuroimaging techniques which can be expensive and, in some cases, fail to provide a definitive diagnosis at the early stages required to facilitate timely intervention and slow disease progression.
With novel therapeutics which aim to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease achieving approval in the United States and being considered for approval in other countries, diagnostics which can identify those at risk of developing this disease are more important than ever. Biomarkers have emerged as vital tools in the early detection and risk assessment of Alzheimer’s disease. Among these, the apolipoprotein E gene (ApoE) has garnered significant attention. The apolipoprotein E protein (ApoE) exists in three common isoforms: ApoE2, ApoE3, and ApoE4. These isoforms combine to form six common genotypes in the general population. Notably, the presence of the ApoE4 allele is associated with a significantly increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
The Randox ApoE4 Array marks a significant advancement in Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers. This quick and sensitive blood test allows direct ApoE4 genotyping, eliminating the need for traditional molecular techniques. With its fast and accurate results, healthcare providers can efficiently assess an individual’s genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
In this article, we present a summary of our latest whitepaper: Alzheimer’s Disease, ApoE4 & Risk Detection in which we explore the critical role of ApoE genotyping in Alzheimer’s Disease, the innovative technology behind the Randox ApoE4 Array, and its implications for clinical practice. You can download this whitepaper through the link below.
Apolipoprotein E and Alzheimer’s Risk
The ApoE gene transcribes a 229 amino acid protein which primarily functions to mediate lipid transport in the brain and periphery. ApoE is also involved in immune modulation, synapse regeneration, and the clearance/degradation of amyloid-β, a peptide crucial to the development of Alzheimer’s disease2.
There are 3 common isoforms of the human ApoE, differentiated through single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at amino acid positions 112 and 1582:
These three isoforms combine to produce six common genotypes: E2/E2, E2/E3, E2/E4, E3/E3, E3/E4, and E4/E4. Each genotype is associated with a different level of risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease, with the ApoE4 and ApoE2 isoforms presenting the highest3 and lowest risk 4 respectively.
The structural differences among ApoE isoforms affect their ability to bind lipids, receptors, and amyloid-β, influencing cognitive decline. ApoE2 and ApoE3 bind effectively to HDL (High density lipoprotein), while ApoE4 binds to VLDL (Very low-density lipoprotein), resulting in poor lipidation and toxic aggregates1,2. Cholesterol is crucial for brain function, supporting membrane integrity, signal transduction, and amyloid-β regulation. The interaction of ApoE with amyloid-β regulates amyloid plaque formation, influencing Alzheimer’s disease onset. Cholesterol must be converted to 24S-hydroxycholesterol to cross the blood-brain barrier. Poor cholesterol and phospholipid transport by ApoE4 increases the risk of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease in E4 carriers2.
Randox ApoE Array
The Randox ApoE4 Array is a rapid and highly sensitive blood test that facilitates direct ApoE4 genotyping without the need for traditional molecular techniques. It measures both total ApoE and ApoE4 protein levels directly from a plasma sample, using the ApoE4/total ApoE ratio to classify the ApoE4 status as negative or positive. Additionally, the array can distinguish between heterozygous and homozygous individuals among ApoE4 positive samples, aiding in the assessment of Alzheimer’s disease risk.
Using Randox proprietary chemiluminescent biochip-sandwich immunoassays, the array provides accurate results within three hours from a minimally invasive plasma sample. This method has shown 100% concordance with genotypes achieved through restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) in two separate centres5. Compared to other methods like isoelectric focusing, mass spectrometry, bead-based immunoassay, Sandwich ELISA, and PCR, the Randox ApoE Array offers advantages in speed, simplicity, and automation.
Clinical Implications
The Randox ApoE Array offers significant benefits for managing Alzheimer’s disease through early detection and personalised treatment plans. This minimally invasive blood test identifies individuals at higher genetic risk for Alzheimer’s Disease enabling:
- Timely Interventions: Early identification allows for preventive measures and lifestyle modifications, such as cognitive training and increased physical activity, to delay symptom onset.
- Regular Monitoring: High-risk individuals can be monitored for cognitive changes, enabling early intervention for mild cognitive impairment.
Personalised Treatment Plans
Accurate ApoE genotyping supports personalised treatment:
- Targeted Therapies: ApoE phenotype informs the selection of therapies, especially for ApoE4 carriers.
- Risk Stratification: Patients can be stratified by genetic risk for targeted preventive measures.
- Optimised Medication: Genotype information guides medication choices, enhancing efficacy.
- Family Counselling: Genotyping aids family counselling, advising on preventive measures and monitoring.
Conclusions
The Randox ApoE Array represents a groundbreaking advancement in the early detection and management of Alzheimer’s disease. By providing a rapid, highly sensitive, and minimally invasive method for ApoE genotyping, it empowers healthcare providers to implement timely interventions and personalised treatment plans. This innovative approach not only enhances the accuracy of Alzheimer’s risk assessment but also supports the development of targeted therapies and optimised medication regimens, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease allows for proactive measures that can delay the onset of symptoms, while personalised treatment strategies tailored to an individual’s genetic profile offer a more effective management approach. Furthermore, the array’s capability to provide real-time insights into a patient’s disease stage makes it an invaluable tool in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.
For a deeper understanding of the critical role of ApoE genotyping in Alzheimer’s disease and the innovative technology behind the Randox ApoE Array, we invite you to download our comprehensive whitepaper be clicking on the image below. You can also visit our website to access this and other valuable resources and to learn more about the Randox ApoE4 Array.
References
- Raulin AC, Doss S V., Trottier ZA, Ikezu TC, Bu G, Liu CC. ApoE in Alzheimer’s disease: pathophysiology and therapeutic strategies. Mol Neurodegener. 2022;17(1):72. doi:10.1186/s13024-022-00574-4
- Husain MA, Laurent B, Plourde M. APOE and Alzheimer’s Disease: From Lipid Transport to Physiopathology and Therapeutics. Front Neurosci. 2021;15. doi:10.3389/fnins.2021.630502
- Qian J, Wolters FJ, Beiser A, et al. APOE-related risk of mild cognitive impairment and dementia for prevention trials: An analysis of four cohorts. PLoS Med. 2017;14(3):e1002254. doi:10.1371/journal.pmed.1002254
- Reiman EM, Arboleda-Velasquez JF, Quiroz YT, et al. Exceptionally low likelihood of Alzheimer’s dementia in APOE2 homozygotes from a 5,000-person neuropathological study. Nat Commun. 2020;11(1):667. doi:10.1038/s41467-019-14279-8
- Badrnya S, Doherty T, Richardson C, et al. Development of a new biochip array for APOE4 classification from plasma samples using immunoassay-based methods. Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (CCLM). 2018;56(5):796-802. doi:10.1515/cclm-2017-0618
Bordetella Detection & Species Identification Educational Guide
Bordetella Detection and Species Identification with the Vivalytic
Cases of Bordetella infections are rising across Europe. Bordetella species are responsible for whooping cough, or pertussis, which literally means violet cough. Vaccine deployment in the 1940s saw a reduction in the morbidity and mortality associated with these infections and now, healthy adults can be expected to make a full recovery. However, vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly and the immunocompromised, have been shown to be at increased risk of more severe and long-lasting side effects, including increased risk of mortality.
Traditional methods of identifying Bordetella infections take the form of culture, which can take up to 7 days due to the fastidious and slow-growing nature of these bacteria and provide limited sensitivity1,2. To provide a faster and more sensitive method for the identification of whooping cough pathogens, Randox, in partnership with Bosch, are proud to introduce the Vivalytic Bordetella Cartridge. This real-time PCR assay allows detection of B. pertussis, B. parapertussis and B. holmesii on the Vivalytic system, a universal, fully automated, cartridge-based platform enabling high-plex and low-plex testing, providing an all-in-one solution for molecular diagnostics.
To help you understand the implications of Bordetella infections and those of the Vivalytic system, we have produced a new educational guide, covering the Bordetella species responsible for whooping cough; the pathophysiology and complications associated with these infections; the Vivalytic platform and the benefits it can bring to your laboratory; and finally, a summary of findings presented at ESCMID 2024 in which the Vivalytic Bordetella cartridge showed excellent results. Here, we present this educational guide and a summary of its contents. You can download this guide for free by clicking the download link below.
The Scale of the Bordetella Problem
The rates of positive identification of Bordetella infection are increasing throughout Europe. In England, between January and March 2024, there were 2793 laboratory confirmed cases of whooping cough causing the deaths of 5 infants, compared with a total of 858 cases in 20233. A rudimentary projection model estimates that without intervention, whooping cough cases in the England could total over 15,000 cases by the end of 2024. Rising cases are not isolated to the UK – increased rates of diagnosis have also been reported in Denmark, Spain, and Croatia4. Increased numbers of infections illustrate the need for novel and rapid diagnostics to identify those who have been infected and help reduce the transmission of these bacteria.
Bordetella genus
Bacteria of the Bordetella genus are gram-negative coccobacilli5 which are important pathogens in human medicine as they colonise the respiratory tract leading to a range of pulmonary and bronchial infections6. There are 3 main species associated with whooping cough: of B. pertussis, B. parapertussis (Classical Bordetella) and B. holmesii (pertussis-like disease pathogen).
Pertussis is caused by Classical Bordetella: B. pertussis and B. parapertussis. Despite widespread vaccination cases are rising, partially due to waning immunity. Pertussis is highly contagious and particularly dangerous for infants, who account for most pertussis-related deaths. The disease progresses through three phases: catarrhal (cold-like symptoms), paroxysmal (severe coughing fits), and convalescent (persistent cough). Classical Bordetella species share over 98% DNA sequence similarity and share many crucial virulence factors like toxins adenylate cyclase toxin (ACT), pertussis toxin (PXT), and dermonecrotic toxin5 yet there are variations in potential hosts and disease. For example, B. pertussis is an exclusively human pathogen, whereas B. parapertussis can infect both humans and sheep6.
Bordetella holmesii causes pertussis-like symptoms but is ofen less severe. Unlike classical Bordetella, B. holmesii can cause bacteraemia, especially in immunocompromised individuals. Accurate diagnosis of B. holmesii remains challenging due to its similarities with other Bordetella species.
Whooping cough can lead to complications such as pneumonia, which may develop if fever persists beyond the catarrhal phase2. CNS complications like seizures and encephalopathy occur in less than 2% of cases, often due to hypoxia, hypoglycaemia, toxins, or secondary infections2. Bordetella toxins, especially PXT, increase histamine sensitivity and insulin secretion. Infants are especially at risk of bradycardia, hypotension, and cardiac arrest.
Vivalytic Bordetella Cartridge
To enhance the detection and species identification of Bordetella, Randox introduces the Vivalytic Bordetella cartridge. This user-friendly assay is designed to detect B. pertussis, B. parapertussis, and B. holmesii from a single nasopharyngeal swab or aspirate sample. Utilising Real-time PCR, it enables rapid and accurate detection up to four weeks after symptom onset, differentiating between human pathogenic Bordetella species. With a time to result of just 47 minutes, this assay is invaluable for patient diagnosis and the containment of Bordetella, helping to reduce aerogenic transmission.
Summary of Benefits:
- Sample Volume – 300μl.
- Sample Type – Nasopharyngeal swab sample or aspirates.
- Real-time PCR detection.
- Time to result – ~47 minutes.
- Detection of B. pertussis, B. parapertussis, and B. holmesii.
Rapid and Accurate Detection of Whooping Cough in Clinical Samples
Zimmerman, 2024
At the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID) 2024 congress, the Vivalytic Bordetella array showed excellent performance, with a 97.7% concordance and a 97.9% positive percent agreement (PPA) with the reference method.7 It accurately identified all additional positive samples and maintained over 98% PPA across spiked samples, even at low levels. The system’s invalid result rate was notably low at 0.6%, compared to 2.9% with the BioGX assay7.
The conclusions drawn from this investigation are as follows:
- The Vivalytic Bordetella cartridge provided excellent concordance with a sensitive reference method and delivered fast and accurate results.
- This assay is ideal for both hospital laboratories and outpatient settings, thanks to its user-friendly design and quick turnaround times.
- Early identification of infected patients will aid in preventing the spread of re-emerging whooping cough epidemics.
Conclusion
As Bordetella infections rise across Europe, rapid and accurate detection is crucial. The Vivalytic Bordetella Cartridge offers a fast, reliable solution, identifying B. pertussis, B. parapertussis, and B. holmesii with high accuracy in just 47 minutes. This advanced diagnostic tool can help reduce transmission and manage whooping cough effectively.
Take control of your diagnostic capabilities and ensure the best care for your patients. Download our comprehensive educational guide to learn more about Bordetella infections and the benefits of the Vivalytic system.
For more information on the Vivalytic, the panels mentioned, or any of our products, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at marketing@randox.com.
References
- Lauria AM, Zabbo CP. Pertussis. StatPearls Publishing; 2024. Accessed June 12, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519008/
- Pittet LF, Posfay-Barbe KM. Bordetella holmesii: Still Emerging and Elusive 20 Years On. Microbiol Spectr. 2016;4(2). doi:10.1128/microbiolspec.EI10-0003-2015
- UK Health and Security Agency. Confirmed Cases of Pertussis in England by Month.; 2024.
- Smout E, Mellon D, Rae M. Whooping cough rises sharply in UK and Europe. BMJ. Published online April 2, 2024:q736. doi:10.1136/bmj.q736
- Rivera I, Linz B, Harvill ET. Evolution and Conservation of Bordetella Intracellular Survival in Eukaryotic Host Cells. Front Microbiol. 2020;11. doi:10.3389/fmicb.2020.557819
- Hamidou Soumana I, Linz B, Harvill ET. Environmental Origin of the Genus Bordetella. Front Microbiol. 2017;8. doi:10.3389/fmicb.2017.00028
- Zimmerman S. Rapid and Accurate Detection of Whooping Cough in Clinical Samples.; 2024.
Dementia Action Week 2024
Dementia Action Week 2024 (13th – 20th May)
The term Dementia describes the different brain disorders that trigger a loss of brain function. These conditions are all usually progressive and eventually severe. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common type of dementia, affecting 62 per cent of all those diagnosed.
Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life. Common symptoms include memory loss, confusion, and speech problems. Early warning signs may also include finding it difficult to follow conversations, or programs on TV, forgetting names of friends, or everyday objects and feeling confused even in a familiar environment.
Mainly affecting older people, after the age of 65, the likelihood of developing dementia roughly doubles every five years – however, for some dementia can develop earlier, presenting different issues for the person affected, their carer and their family. There is also a considerable economic cost associated with the disease estimated at £23 billion a year, which is predicted to triple by 2040. This is more than the cost of cancer, heart disease, and stroke.
At Randox, we recognise the importance in diagnosing dementia early. Through our Randox Alzheimer’s Disease Array which can be used for Rapid Identification of Alzheimer’s Disease Risk. Randox’s Alzheimer’s Disease Risk Array can be used for the direct determination of ApoE4 status from plasma, eliminating the need for genetic testing, assisting in clinical research and personalised medicine strategies. At Randox, we believe the importance of measuring ApoE4 protein expression in plasma is the way forward to screen those individuals at increased risk of Alzheimer Disease, as new beta amyloid-targeting therapies for this condition are being expected.
Race Against Dementia have been the partner charity for the Randox Grand National Festival over the past two years, working alongside this charity which was founded by three-times Formula One World Champion, Sir Jackie Stewart, with the aim of funding much needed pioneering research into the prevention and cure of dementia.
For further information about the Randox Alzheimer’s Array please email info@randoxbiosciences.com
Vivalytic | Strep A
Vivalytic | Strep A
–
Detection of Streptococcus pyogenes
*Currently under development. Not available for sale.
Qualitative RT-PCR detection of Streptococcus pyogenes
- Quick turnaround time of less than 30 minutes, beneficial for both the patient and for the containment of Strep A reducing aerogenic transmission.
- Convenient 4 step process from sample entry to results. Suitable for use in laboratory and non-laboratory settings.
- Real-time PCR enables rapid and targeted detection up to 4 weeks after the onset of symptoms Streptococcus pyogenes.
Clinical Significance
Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is the primary culprit behind bacterial pharyngitis in school-aged children. Typically resulting in a mild illness characterised by symptoms such as a sore throat, headache,
and fever, GAS infections may also manifest as scarlet fever, presenting with a fine, red rash. Although often manageable, severe cases warrant antibiotic treatment for effective resolution.
An automated, qualitative in vitro diagnostic test employing real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is utilised to detect nucleic acids from Streptococcus pyogenes in human oropharyngeal swabs. This advanced test serves as a valuable aid in diagnosing streptococcal pharyngitis in symptomatic individuals.
Features
Sample Type: Oropharyngeal swabs
Sample Volume: 300 μl
Detection Method: Real-Time PCR
Time to result: Less than 30 minutes
| Detectable Pathogen |
|---|
| Streptococcus pyogenes |
Vivalytic Group B Streptococcus (GBS) (In Development)
Real-time PCR for the detection of Streptococcus agalactiae – More information to follow
| Detectable Pathogen |
|---|
| Streptococcus agalactiae (B-Streptococci) |
“AWARD-WINNING DESIGN DELIVERS
AN UNCOMPLICATED USER EXPERIENCE”
Vivalytic Workflow
Intuitive engineering of Vivalytic ensures the analyser is user friendly. The process of patient sample to result comprises a very simple 4 step workflow.
To begin the test, the user scans or enters sample information. The cartridge code is then scanned into the embedded Vivalytic software. The user then adds sample into the dedicated cartridge slot, closes the lid and inserts the cartridge into the Vivalytic.
The touchscreen display will countdown the time remaining to test completion. Results will be displayed on the screen. Multiple Vivalytics can be wirelessly connected allowing the user to control multiple tests at one time all reporting to a master Vivalytic platform.
Want to know more?
Contact us or visit our COVID-19 Monitoring & Management page
Related Products
Viral Respiratory Infection Array
SARS-CoV-2 Pooling Test
Vivalytic
Vivalytic Test Menu
Vivalytic | Candida auris
Vivalytic | Candida auris
–
Detection of Candida auris
*Research Use Only
Qualitative RT-PCR detection of Candida auris
- Quick turnaround time of 30 minutes, beneficial for both the patient and for the containment of Candia auris and reducing transmission.
- Convenient 4 step process from sample entry to results. Suitable for use in laboratory and non-laboratory settings.
- Real-time PCR enables rapid and targeted detection up to 4 weeks after the onset of symptoms of the multidrug-resistant fungal Candia auris.
Clinical Significance
Candida auris is an emerging and often multidrug-resistant fungal species that poses a significant threat to public health. This yeast-like fungus can cause severe infections, primarily affecting individuals with compromised immune systems, those in healthcare facilities, or those with underlying medical conditions. Candida auris is particularly concerning due to its ability to persist on surfaces, leading to healthcare-associated outbreaks. Diagnosis can be challenging as it is often misidentified with other Candida species. Effective management involves prompt identification, strict infection control measures followed by treatment. The Vivalytic Candida auris test is an automated, qualitative in vitro diagnostic employing real-time PCR to detect Candida auris DNA from swabs taken from the human axilla, groin, nasal, and rectal areas.
This test serves to screen individuals at risk for colonisation, playing a crucial role in the prevention and control of Candida auris outbreaks and infections within healthcare settings.
Features
Sample Type: Swab
Sample Volume: 300 μl
Detection Method: Real-Time PCR
Time to result: 52 minutes
| Detectable Pathogens |
|---|
| Candida auris |
“AWARD-WINNING DESIGN DELIVERS
AN UNCOMPLICATED USER EXPERIENCE”
Vivalytic Workflow
Intuitive engineering of Vivalytic ensures the analyser is user friendly. The process of patient sample to result comprises a very simple 4 step workflow.
To begin the test, the user scans or enters sample information. The cartridge code is then scanned into the embedded Vivalytic software. The user then adds sample into the dedicated cartridge slot, closes the lid and inserts the cartridge into the Vivalytic.
The touchscreen display will countdown the time remaining to test completion. Results will be displayed on the screen. Multiple Vivalytics can be wirelessly connected allowing the user to control multiple tests at one time all reporting to a master Vivalytic platform.
Want to know more?
Contact us or visit our COVID-19 Monitoring & Management page
Related Products
Viral Respiratory Infection Array
SARS-CoV-2 Pooling Test
Vivalytic
Vivalytic Test Menu
Vivalytic | CT/NG
Vivalytic | riTA CT/NG
–
Detection of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae
*Currently under development. Not available for sale.
Qualitative RT-PCR detection of STI causative Species
- Quick turnaround time of less than 30 minutes, beneficial for both the patient and for the containment of STIs and reducing transmission.
- Convenient 4 step process from sample entry to results. Suitable for use in laboratory and non-laboratory settings.
- Isothermal amplification enables rapid and targeted detection up to 4 weeks after the onset of symptoms and differentiate the STI pathogenic species.
Clinical Significance
Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) are bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Chlamydia, primarily transmitted through sexual contact, is often asymptomatic, necessitating testing for diagnosis. Symptoms may include painful urination, and if untreated, it can lead to complications like pelvic inflammatory disease. Gonorrhoeae, also transmitted sexually, presents symptoms such as painful urination and genital discharge. Early detection is crucial for both infections to prevent complications and further transmission.
Utilising isothermal nucleic amplification technology, our system qualitatively detects nucleic acids from Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG).
Features
Sample Type: Swab or Urine
Sample Volume: 300 μl
Detection Method: Isothermal amplification
Time to result: Less than 30 minutes
| Detectable Pathogens | |
|---|---|
| Chlamydia trachomatis | Neisseria gonorrhoeae |
“AWARD-WINNING DESIGN DELIVERS
AN UNCOMPLICATED USER EXPERIENCE”
Vivalytic Workflow
Intuitive engineering of Vivalytic ensures the analyser is user friendly. The process of patient sample to result comprises a very simple 4 step workflow.
To begin the test, the user scans or enters sample information. The cartridge code is then scanned into the embedded Vivalytic software. The user then adds sample into the dedicated cartridge slot, closes the lid and inserts the cartridge into the Vivalytic.
The touchscreen display will countdown the time remaining to test completion. Results will be displayed on the screen. Multiple Vivalytics can be wirelessly connected allowing the user to control multiple tests at one time all reporting to a master Vivalytic platform.
Want to know more?
Contact us or visit our COVID-19 Monitoring & Management page
Related Products
Viral Respiratory Infection Array
SARS-CoV-2 Pooling Test
Vivalytic
Vivalytic Test Menu
Randox Collaborate with Transgene in the Field of Bioengineering
Randox are delighted to announce the recent publication of a scientific paper ‘Design and selection of anti-PD-L1 single domain antibody and tumor necrosis factor superfamily ligands for an optimal vectorization in an oncolytic virus.’ The scientific paper showcases the innovative collaboration between Transgene and Randox in the field of bioengineering.
Claire Huguet, PhD (Randox, Head of Biomarker Sciences), introduces the paper.
“Transgene and Randox Laboratories Ltd entered into a scientific collaboration several years ago, with the aim of joining their competences to deliver a novel therapeutic approach to oncology therapies. With Transgene being a world leader in the field of oncolytic viruses and Randox being recognised for its capabilities in targeted antibody discovery, it was a natural synergistic move for Randox to generate a unique, fully blocking PDL-1 sdAb for Transgene to include as a payload in their oncolytic virus vector.
The following research paper, just published in Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, summarizes the properties of the vectorized construct, which together with additional payloads, constitutes a promising approach to the development of potent anticancer immunomodulating therapies.”
Wish to read more?
Our Technology
Genomic Laboratory Technologies
Relatively new to the Randox Group is our Randox Genomics Services department, having been hugely successful in aiding the COVID testing programme, our established sequencing laboratory has been specifically designed and set up to fulfil a unique range of testing from our specialised laboratory in Northern Ireland.
Nucleic Acid Extraction and Isolation
Thermo Scientific KingFisher Flex
Automated nucleic acid extraction instruction that provides high throughput purification of up to 96 samples per run within 40 minutes.
Sample Quality Control
ThermoFisher Scientific Qubit 3.0 & Qubit Flex
Capable of fast and specific nucleic acid quantification using fluorescence-based dye application, suitable for a lower throughput. More sensitive and accurate protocol than UV absorbance.
ThermoFisher Scientific Varioskan LUX
Capable of rapid fluorescence-based UV absorbance nucleic acid analysis, suitable for high throughput of processing samples.
Agilent 4200 TapeStation System
An automated electrophoresis solution that with a scalable throughput (1-96 samples) can provide results in 1-2 minutes per plate with excellent reproducibility for sizing, concentration and integrity assessment.
Liquid Handling
Tecans
Freedom EVO 150 base unit tecans, are automated liquid handling machines, enabling fully traceable, scalable (1-96 samples) automated library preparation including QC and library pooling.
Integra Viaflo 384
Viaflo 384 enables transfers of 24, 96 and 384 samples in a single step, thus increasing pipetting throughput and reproducibility significantly.
Integra Assist Plus
Pipette adapter: accommodates all Integra electronic multichannel pipettes- with fixed and adjustable tip spacing and the D-One single channel pipetting module.
Sequencing
Applied Biosystems SeqStudio Genetic Analyser
Low-throughput benchtop system that delivers gold-standard Sanger sequencing technology and fragment analysis, easily used across a broad range of applications.
Next Generation Sequencing
MiSeq
The MiSeq System is capable of automated paired-end reads and up to 15 Gb per run, delivering over 600 bases of sequence data per read.
NextSeq 2000
NextSeq 2000 System supports emerging and mid-throughput sequencing applications as well as a broad range of methods such as exome sequencing, target enrichment, single-cell profiling, transcriptome sequencing, and more. It offers an intuitive workflow with load-and-go ease and visual cues about run status. The NextSeq 2000 allows whole-exome sequencing of up to 48 samples in 33 hours.
NovaSeq6000
The most powerful sequencing instrument Illumina produce with the ability to provide scalable throughput for efficient whole-genome, whole exome and whole-transcriptome sequencing through sequencing by synthesis and patterned flow cell technology.
Genotyping
Illumina iScan
An innovative array scanner that supports rapid, sensitive, and accurate imaging of Illumina BeadChips for exceptional genetic analysis results. The iScan System can scan thousands of array samples per day, without sacrificing data quality or reproducibility. It supports an expansive portfolio of genetic analysis assays, from high-throughput genotyping to DNA methylation analysis.
Useful Resources
CDx & Biopharma Services
ConcizuTrace Sample Collection Guide Resource Hub
SAMPLE COLLECTION RESOURCE HUB
EVERYTHING YOU NEED
We are delighted to introduce to you the ConcizuTraceTM sample collection resource hub.
Here you will find all of our supporting guides, step-by-step videos on sample collection, use of the Randox web portal and dedicated instructions. To discover our complete list of resources, click the tabs below.
If there is something additional we can support you with, please do not hesitate to contact us below!
SUPER USER GUIDE
SAMPLE COLLECTION GUIDE
Recolección de muestras de pacientes
Su guía de soporte dedicada
Coleta de amostras de pacientes
Seu guia de suporte dedicado
Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)
Next Generation Sequencing
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a sequencing technology that offers speed, scalability and ultra-high throughput. The technology can be used to determine the order of nucleotides in entire genomes or targeted regions of DNA or RNA. NGS has applications in environmental, agricultural and forensic science as well as genomic and clinical research.
NGS Capabilities
Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) is a wildly used NGS method that involves sequencing every protein coding region (approximately 21,000 genes) to identify any variants that may increase the risk of developing certain conditions or impact health/lifestyle. WES can be used across a broad range of applications including genetic disease, population genetics and cancer studies.
Advantages
- Attains widespread coverage of coding regions
- Cost effective alternative to Whole-Genome Sequencing (WGS)
- Smaller data set provides faster and easy data analysis compared to WGS approaches
Human Whole Genome Sequencing (hWGS) involves sequencing very single base in your DNA (approximately 3.2 billion) to identify any variants that may increase the risk of developing certain conditions or impact health/lifestyle. This sequencing method has many applications including identifying genetic disorders, mutations responsible for cancer progression, as well as monitoring disease outbreaks.
Advantages
- High-resolution view of the genome
- Detection of all variant types
- Low cost, fast library preparation
16s rRNA gene sequencing involves the analysis of the prokaryotic 16s ribosomal RNA gene which is found in all bacteria and archaea. This sequencing approach is extremely useful for microbiome research studies. 16s rRNA gene sequencing has a number of applications including, environmental, clinical and food
Advantages
- Identification and taxonomic classification of bacterial species
- Fast speed and cost efficient
- Discovery of novel pathogens
Shotgun sequencing reads all the genomic DNA in the sample, rather than just one specific region. This sequencing method provides a vast amount of genetic information as it can identify archaea, bacteria, fungi and viruses.
Advantages
- Less labour intensive than other sequencing methods.
- Faster process than clone-clone sequencing
- Requires less DNA
qPCR
qPCR allows for the analysis of particular variants of specific locations. It is a good choice when interrogating a small region of DNA on a limited number of samples. Real-time PCR can be used for both qualitative and quantitative analysis.
Advantages and Applications of qPCR
Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) Advantages
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High sample throughput
-
High sensitivity
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Comprehensive genomic coverage
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Can sequence thousands of genes simultaneously
- Low sample input required
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Fast turnaround time for high sample volumes
