SUMMARY
UCLA researchers in the Department of Bioengineering have developed a system to build immunocomplexes, generate and accumulate amplified signals, and perform the signal readout of a digital ELISA using standard benchtop instruments and techniques.
BACKGROUND
Digital ELISA allows for the detection and measurement of protein biomarkers at a single-molecule level. While digital ELISA technology has improved on the sensitivity of ELISA detection, it requires costly and specialized equipment that inhibits its widespread adoption. In addition, the bottleneck of digital ELISA remains the creation of a large number of micro-partitions that simultaneously allow the formation of immunocomplexes and contain the amplified signals for a final readout. To leverage the advantages of digital ELISA, there is a need to develop platforms to perform digital ELISA using standard laboratory equipment.
INNOVATION
UCLA researchers in the Department of Bioengineering have developed a system to perform digital ELISAs on standard lab equipment. The platform uses hydrogel particles to accumulate and form immunocomplexes and generate and accumulate amplified signals. The signal readout can then be performed using standard benchtop instruments and techniques. The hydrogel particles increased the concentration of captured analytes from sample and enhanced the generation of amplified signals to increase the number signaling molecules. Furthermore, the system allowed particle emulsions to be disrupted after sufficient signal accumulation to be analyzed using more common instruments such as standard flow cytometers.
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS
ADVANTAGES
STATUS OF DEVELOPMENT
Initial Concept