Simultaneous detection of analytes related to metabolic disorders through Biochip Array Technology: a new accurate approach to the study of metabolic syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome is a group of cardiovascular risk factors. It is highly prevalent, with approximately 20-25% of adults affected. It is estimated that having metabolic syndrome results in a person being three times more likely to have a stroke or heart attack, and five times more likely to develop diabetes. Underlying risk factors of metabolic syndrome include abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, physical inactivity, aging and hormonal imbalance.

Good metabolism means that your body is in good overall health. Common metabolic disorders include genetic metabolic disorders, diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Testing for analytes related to metabolic syndrome present in serum, assists clinical research and by testing them simultaneously from a single sample the information is quickly increased. Biochip Array Technology (BAT) enables this multi-analytical approach and therefore facilitates the investigative studies on metabolic syndrome. Understanding and testing to see how well your metabolism is functioning is key to ensuring long lasting health.

By using BAT, multiple analytes related to metabolic syndrome including ferritin, insulin, leptin, Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and resistin can be measured at the same time from a single sample of serum from an individual, which means that more results and information are obtained without the need of performing separate analyses. With BAT the multiple discrete tests define arrays on a biochip surface of 9mm x 9mm, which allows the multi-analytical approach. BAT is applicable to automated biochip analysers, the analytical performance of the assays is optimal showing good sensitivity and precision as well as favourable agreement with other single assays. This ensures accurate and reliable results, obtained all at once from a single undivided sample. Moreover, due to the multiplex ability of this technology, less sample is required and more efficient use of sample, time and labour is achieved. Five results can be reported for every sample per minute, with the first 5 test results being reported after only 37 minutes (Evidence Evolution analyser), which is rapid in comparison to traditional singleplex assays.

This application can offer a more efficient and economical approach to research metabolic related disorders in individuals. In combination with medical and family history, medication and lifestyle, this can deliver valuable information for personalised medicine approaches.