Biosensor Instrument utilizes surface acoustic wave technology.

SAW instruments GmbH Oct 12, 2010

Press Release Summary:

Utilizing SAW technology, sam5 provides label-free detection of real-time binding and structural events. Bimodal measurement technique enables instrument to measure conformational changes in membranes and vesicles, as well as traditional cellular samples. In addition, sensor chips integrate 5 independent sensor elements for simultaneous analysis of different species or parameters and parallel references.

Original Press Release:

SAW Instruments Make a Noise in Biological Detection

SAW Instruments launch novel sam5 biosensor for addressing membranes, vesicles and cells

Biotechnica, Germany - SAW Instruments GmbH has today launched its unique sam5 biosensor instrument for advanced real-time biomolecular interaction and kinetic studies, at Biotechnica, Hannover, 5-7 October. The sam5 is a peerless biosensor utilising Surface Acoustic Wave technology for the label-free detection of real-time binding and structural events.

Using a proprietary bimodal measurement technique, this platform is uniquely able to measure conformational changes in membranes and vesicles, as well as more traditional cellular samples. Furthermore, the sensor chips integrate five independent sensor elements for simultaneous analysis of different species or parameters and parallel references. As a result, the sam5 matches the biosensor needs of a much broader range of researchers than existing systems, whilst also providing the precision required to drive conventional studies forward.

As part of the European launch, Dr Thomas Gronewold from SAW Instruments will be presenting a snapshot of the sam5 instrument with applications data, at the Innovation Forum on Wednesday 6th October at 2.45-3.10pm entitled "sam5 biosensor - a new solution for simple and robust label-free biomolecular interaction analyses in biotech and academia" (Hall 9 - Forum 2, Stand G61).

SAW is also exhibiting at Biotechnica on stand A36, Hall 9, and are running personal hands-on demonstrations of the new sam5.

Surface Acoustic Wave technology is based on a specific acoustic wave mode and its particularity to propagate confined to the surface of a material. Each surface has typical inherent properties affecting the wave as it travels across the surface of the material being analysed. Thus, the nature of the surface in question, and therefore any changes to it, can be assessed by sensors monitoring the behaviour of the wave as it propagates across the surface. In particular, changes in mass result in alterations to the propagation velocity of the wave, whilst viscoelastic and conformational characteristics additionally influence wave amplitude. The technology developed and employed by SAW instruments is capable of accurately interpreting this information in order to provide real-time readouts, measuring binding and conformational changes in the samples through which the wave passes.

About SAW Instruments GmbH

www.saw-instruments.de

SAW Instruments GmbH designs, develops and sells biosensor-based laboratory instruments for life sciences research. The proprietary technology of SAW Instruments employs a Surface Acoustic Waves approach to biological measurement, rather than using traditional optical methods such as SPR. The technology is uniquely positioned compared to other biosensor technologies based on its ability to measure conformational changes in cells, membranes and vesicles. In addition, the system is also capable of providing other industry standard measurements including those involving kinetics, quantitation and affinity.

SAW instruments has more than ten years experience in the field of label-free biosensor technology and a number of our customers have successfully published work employing the platform. It is our goal is to continue to build on this experience, as well as to develop a family of workflow-driven products to further meet our customers' needs.