Philips Research Press Release
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October, 2005
Philips demonstrates biosensor technologies for high-sensitivity molecular diagnostics |
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Eindhoven, The Netherlands -
Scientists of Philips have demonstrated two technologies for
molecular diagnostics that combine a high analytical performance
with ease of use and low cost. One of these detection technologies
is based on magnetic particles (for magnetic biosensors) and the
other one is based on Raman spectroscopy (for optical biosensors).
Both technologies promise to radically improve the speed,
sensitivity and reliability of biomolecular diagnostics for
applications such as protein and pathogen monitoring, near-patient
testing in medical centers (blood, urine, saliva tests etc.), and
ultimately home testing by individuals. With molecular detection,
the genetic fingerprint of pathogens is recognized within half an
hour, while today, bacteriological methods still can take up to
three days.
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Philips' magnetic biosensor measures the magnetic field created by
magnetic nano-particles that bind to target molecules in a
biological assay. Due to the non-magnetic nature of biological
test fluids, the technique can detect the target molecules with
high sensitivity in complex samples. Philips is currently
prototyping a one-time usable (i.e. disposable) biosensor,
designed for low-cost manufacture, that could fit into a handheld
reader. Furthermore, scientists at Philips have developed a new
approach for making Raman spectroscopy simpler, smaller and
inexpensive. In an optical biosensor based on this technology, a
drop of the patient's blood is irradiated with a laser. Each type
of molecule in this sample emits specific radiation, which is then
analyzed using a custom-made optical filter. It has been proven
that a biomarker for malaria can be detected by Raman
spectroscopy. Philips targets the realization of a portable,
battery-powered optical biosensor for rapid and reliable diagnosis
of malaria in the field.
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Being able to detect specific biological molecules at very low
concentrations (10-13 moles/liter and lower) is one of the keys to
advanced molecular diagnostics - an area of medicine that aims to
identify the onset or predilection to disease before the patient
shows any symptoms. If the technology can be made cheap and simple
enough for widespread use, it will enable the rapid identification
and monitoring of proteins and pathogens. As a result, it will be
possible not only to give appropriate treatments much more
quickly, but also to make them patient-specific, leading to fewer
side effects and faster patient recovery. In commercial areas such
as the food industry, this technology will allow far more regular
testing regimes to be introduced.
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Philips' next step in the development of such systems is to
demonstrate dose-response curves for relevant biological
molecules. The company expects this magnetic biosensor technology
to be ready for industrialization in about four to six years. The
optical Raman biosensor technology is still in its early research
phase. Important contributions to the development of the new
biosensor technologies have been made by Philips Applied
Technologies and Philips High-Tech Plastics.
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High-resolution pictures are available from:
+ www.research.philips.com/newscenter/pictures/040928-biopharma.html |
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For further information, please contact: Steve Klink |
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About Royal Philips ElectronicsRoyal Philips Electronics of the Netherlands (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHI) is a
global leader in healthcare, lighting and consumer lifestyle, delivering
people-centric, innovative products, services and solutions through the brand
promise of “sense and simplicity”. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Philips
employs approximately 134,200 employees in more than 60 countries worldwide.
With sales of EUR 27 billion in 2007, the company is a market leader in medical
diagnostic imaging and patient monitoring systems, energy efficient lighting
solutions, as well as lifestyle solutions for personal wellbeing. News from Philips is located at
www.philips.com/newscenter. |
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