Mar 19 2010
Fraunhofer-FIT has developed a high-performance, automated microscope for tumor diagnostics application.
The Microfluidic System IMIKRID
The microscope can be used to analyse complex protein interactions among different cells and also facilitates more precise categorization of slightly different types of tumors and thus helps decide which therapy is to be used. A hardware having high precision and a software for image analysis, which can be modified according to requirements of specific users, are the major features that ensure enhanced performance of the microscope.
A laser scan of the surface of a tissue probe is generated by the system. The laser beam can also set off fluorescence effects for providing in-depth understanding of the probe structure. According to Dr. Harald Mathis, head of Fraunhofer FIT’s Department for Biomolecular Optical Systems, explained that probe images of high-resolution are created by using the reflected light. Mathis observed that Fraunhofer FIT’s learning image software is capable of drawing out more useful information out of these images in comparison to widely used tools today.
The microfluidic system IMIKRID enhances early diagnosis of heart and cancer diseases to render treatment more effective. Fraunhofer FIT is leading a group of Fraunhofer institutes involved in the ongoing development work on IMIKRID. This system uses a unique technique for detecting markers in concentrations of single-molecule level also. A microfluidic chip along with four single-molecule biosensors forms the core of the IMIKRID system.
IMIKRID finds application in preventive diagnostics in cardiology for the detection and monitoring of cardiac diseases, as well as in early, asymptomatic stages of cancer diagnostics. Another application is in lactate monitoring by sudor analysis for monitoring the fitness of athletes and infarct prevention.
The protein-level microscope and IMIKRID systems will be demonstarted during April 19 to April 23, 2010, at HANNOVER MESSE, Forum tech transfer – Gateway2Innovation.