Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
then only closed microfluidic systems will provide the required functionality. One of the keys
is to stabilize the biomolecules by immobilization and by protective measures. Also, novel
assembly methods need to be developed in order to increase the survival of the biomolecular
compounds. Emphasis needs to be placed at the interface where the chemical or biological
signal is transduced to the electrical or other measurable signal.
Ingenta (2009) recently pointed out that there has been an exponential rise in the develop-
ment of biosensors during the last 40 years or so. This is primarily owing to the high selec-
tivity and sensitivity offered by the biosensor in detecting the analyte. The key to biosensor
development lies in the transduction step and the biological receptor. However, Ingenta
(2009) explains the importance of the immobilization step which significantly influences
shelf-life and surface regeneration. Thus, both random as well as oriented immobilization
procedures are being explored and analyzed. For example, Ingenta (2009) reports that among
the random procedures being explored are adsorption, entrapment, cross-linking, and electro-
static interactions. Among the oriented immobilization procedures being explored are cova-
lent binding and affinity interactions. These provide controlled and reproducible receptor
surfaces.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark (2007) reports that the Danish biotech firm
Areas A/S has been selected by the World Economic Forum (WEF) as a Technology Pioneer.
This is because of their development of a biosensor for the detection of landmines and unex-
ploded ordnance devices. This Areas biosensor can sense nitrogen dioxide in the soil and
exhibits a change in color from green to red near the vicinity of the landmine. The impor-
tance of this detection device cannot be overstated, as landmines kill or maim around
27,000 persons each year. Landmines continue to be a hazard even where original conflicts
have subsided. This recognition technique should assist in raising more capital for its biosen-
sor development. Areas has already raised 55 million Danish Kroner (around U.S. $9.4 mil-
lion) from its bourse listing on First North. This is an alternate marketplace for small growth
companies, and is part of OMX Nordic Exchange ( The Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
Denmark, 2007 ).
In an interesting communication Sullivan (2009) explains the commercial opportunities in
diagnostics and in drug development for cancer biomarkers from early discovery through
to the clinic. The author does caution, however, that the discovery of cancer biomarkers,
and the discovery and validation of assays is not only complex, but is also expensive.
Besides, there is no guarantee that an investment will provide a commercial return.
This author provides an example of pairing a diagnostic test with a specific therapeutic agent.
The author cites the example of the immunoassay for HER2 protein (Hercep Test; Dako) and
the monoclonal antibody trastuzumab (Herceptin; Genentech). This author points out that this
is an example of an incentive to develop such tests. These tests support the use of Hereptin in
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