Randox Biochip-based Test for Drugs of Abuse Gets FDA Clearance: Report

Randox Laboratories of Northern Ireland has received FDA clearance for a biochip technology, its “Drugs of Abuse” array, which allows the simultaneous detection of amphetamine, methamphetamine, cocaine, barbiturates, cannabinoids, opiates, methadone, benzodiazepines, lorazepam, phencyclidine and creatinine from a single urine sample, according to a report published today on the Laboratorytalk website.

The test is based on a biochip developed by Randox to run on its “evidence” system, which is an automated protein analysis platform that the company says can be used to conduct as many as 25 or more single sample tests simultaneously from as many as 180 patients per hour on a 1-square centimeter chip.

The Evidence analyzer automates assays for the biochips. The analyzer consists of a twin carousel, which is designed to enable continuous operation of the system, and a loading area, a reagent/sample addition station, an incubator, wash station, signal station, and imaging station.