Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Branch Bioanalytics and Bioprocesses IZI-BBWhile modern analytical devices allow us to analyze ever smaller quantities, one crucial part of the prozess usually goes unmentioned: efficient sampling and sample preparation! Without this, precision in bioanalysis would be impossible. These first steps are the invisible heroes that ensure the reliability of the subsequent analysis.
In practice, sample collection is often considered separately from the actual test development. Predominantly, clinical standard samples are used to validate the procedures and devices. Sampling in a more complex environment such as the real world often leads to deviations and discrepancies, so the already developed point-of-care (POC) tests are neither sensitive nor specific enough.
We aim to bring molecular bioanalytics from the laboratory directly to the patient or the sampling site. To achieve this, we are looking for solutions that prepare the sample in as few steps as possible, so that the target substrate can be effectively detected. The preparation steps include cleaning, pre-concentration and parallel removal of interfering compounds. Preservation of the samples to prevent degradation of the target substrate is also an important component.
