Tohoku Univ: Short / Easy Detection of Endotoxin: Good news for dialysis patients
Tohoku University: Detection of endotoxin
Tohoku University of Inoue, Associate Professor et al., Developed the “endotoxin (endotoxin) new device capable of quick and easy to detect,” it puts the prospect of practical use.
It is an electrochemical measurement method that can determine the presence or absence of endotoxin in a hospital in 30 minutes.
We will launch a venture next month.
In the future, we will pursue commercialization while exploring the possibility of partnering with companies.
Chemical Daily
https://www.chemicaldaily.co.jp
METI: Tohoku Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry
Charles River, USA / EndosafeR-PTSTM: expensive
Currently available endotoxin analyzers for dialysis include the competitor EndosafeR-PTSTM from Charles River.
Conventional measuring device: EndosafeR-PTSTM
The main unit is expensive at 700,000 yen, and costs thousands of yen per cartridge, making it extremely expensive.
Conventionally, low-cost inspection equipment has been expected.
Measurement equipment this time: using inexpensive electrodes
This time, in order to realize an inexpensive electrode tip, we conducted research and development on the electrode structure and electrode materials.
In addition, we succeeded in trial production of a small-sized inspection device with high reproducibility and noise reduction.
Manufacturers and end-users evaluate the prototyped electrode chips and inspection equipment.
R & D: Specific results
Conducted electrode tip structure / detailed design, evaluated carbon material samples / electrochemical properties, and established technology to make inexpensive electrode tips.
“Screen printing is used for electrode printing.”
Prototype of “Inexpensive Carbon Ink and Electrochemical Measurement Chip” succeeded.
To make it “an inexpensive device that does not use a pump”, a flow path is created in the chip,
Devised a design in which the reagent reaches the detection unit while mixing with the lyophilized reagent.
Mass production process: assembly in a clean room
As a method that can be introduced into the mass production process, chip assembly is performed in a clean room.
We decided to adopt a packaging method in a clean room.
Prototype chip: Final evaluation results
Prototype chips using these technologies were manufactured, and the endotoxin detection performance was finally evaluated.
Achieved detection sensitivities of 5 EU / L and 100 EU / L or more in 60 minutes and 10 minutes, respectively.
The prototype chip was able to achieve results exceeding the target value.
https://www.tohoku.meti.go.jp/interface/php/tohoku/kikai/sapoin/index.php/projects/detail/109