Mass Spec Quickly Identifies Viruses
Ibis Biosciences developed a device which combines polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and mass spectrometry to identify viruses, as reported by Reuters. The company worked in collaboration with multiple armed services facilities, Johns Hopkins, and others to test device capability.
The T500 can detect over 90 different viral strains; one of which is the avian flu. One piece that is critical is the device’s capability to monitor diseases as viruses mutate into different forms.
The tool uses PCR to amplify genetic material from a specimen for further testing. Mass spectrometry is then employed to identify the virus.
At a price tag of almost half a million dollars, acquisition of the T500 is likely limited to larger facilities. However, the ability to monitor ongoing diseases and, in particular, utility during disease outbreaks may justify expenditures.
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May 31, 2007 Related topics: Laboratory Equipment, Diagnostic