Spanish firm Zenosense and its UK-based joint venture (JV) MIDS Medical have commenced the evaluation of the Hybrid Strip system to capture data from low doses of nanoparticles and microbeads.

Hybrid Strip is a simulation of MIDS Lab-on-Chip (LoC) test strip system being developed to validate the LoC nano-magnetic detection of paramagnetic nanoparticles quantities that are highly sensitive and assay-sized.

The system features a micromachined, plasma-coated plastic strip consisting of a microfluidic channel to allow the flow of fluid-entrained nanoparticles and microbeads into an area designed for magnetic entrapment and detection.

MIDS Medical has developed the Hybrid Strip system in collaboration with a European biomedical microfluidics manufacturer.

The flow testing of the microfluidic strip is intended to ensure the performance of its channel geometry.

“Upon successful completion of testing of the MIDS nano-magnetic detection system, it is expected to enable point-of-care (POC) high-sensitivity troponin testing and new POC immunoassay tests.”

The strip further includes Hall Effect sensors on a flexible circuit board and a 3D-printed magnet holder assembly to generate the required magnetic field for moving and entrapping the nanoparticles.

Upon successful completion of testing of the MIDS nano-magnetic detection system, it is expected to enable point-of-care (POC) high-sensitivity troponin testing and new POC immunoassay tests.

Zenosense develops and markets medical devices for early detection of bacteria and specific cancers in the exhaled breath of patients at hospitals and primary healthcare settings.

The firm’s flagship product is a handheld, POC device called MIDS Cardiac developed for rapid diagnosis, treatment and disposition of patients with chest pain and suspected acute myocardial infarction.