Enhancing Biosensor Surface Functionalization for new applications in Drug Development & Production

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Antibody therapeutics are a class of drugs with synthetic antibodies as the active ingredient. They offer highly targeted and effective treatments for a wide range of diseases. The analysis of antibodies during drug development presents significant challenges due to their complexity. First, assessing their binding affinity and specificity necessitates intricate methods to ensure optimal therapeutic properties. Second, the production of antibodies demands sophisticated production and monitoring, making the entire drug development process time-consuming and resource intensive. Antibodies are predominantly analysed in central labs, which can lead to delays in obtaining results and hinder real-time decision-making. Implementing decentralized analysis closer to the point of need, will offer faster turnaround times and expedite decision-making.HexagonFab's instrument, Bolt, is specifically designed for point-of-need analysis of antibodies. Currently, Bolt is limited to working with purified solutions. This means that any sample must undergo a process to remove unwanted substances or impurities prior to analysis. Many applications in various fields necessitate compatibility with crude media, i.e. complex samples containing mixtures of different biomolecules without undergoing extensive purification. This compatibility allows for more versatile application of the instrument in diverse settings.HexagonFab is broadening its sensor portfolio by introducing a new generation of sensors capable of measuring crude samples. These sensors feature an electrically sensitive thin film coated with biomolecules; a process known as surface functionalization. The surface functionalization employed is a unique protein/graphene composite material, offering optimal electrical conductivity, while ensuring low non-specific binding signals.To ensure successful product launch, the optimal production and storage conditions for achieving the ideal surface functionalization must be identified. This includes testing of various production methods followed by precise chemical analysis to evaluate the properties of the surface functionalization. In collaboration with NPL, this project aims to evaluate the influence of different production processes on the surface functionalization. By identifying the most effective process conditions, HexagonFab can enhance the performance of its sensors and ensure the successful development of advanced technologies.Understanding and optimizing the surface coating process will ensure that the sensors exhibit the required sensitivity and specificity. With their ability to measure crude samples, these sensors can directly interface with crude media, allowing for more accurate and efficient antibody analysis without the need for extensive purification, ultimately saving time and resources.