Mark-Steven Steiner’s Post

I just came across this interesting read from Kristin Cederquist. I highly encourage you to read the complete whitepaper. It explains advanced aspects of lateral flow test design, specifically focusing on thermodynamics and kinetics in relation to immunoassays. It emphasizes the importance of understanding molecular-level interactions and the influence of particle conjugates on assay performance. The paper discusses key factors like sample migration, conjugate release, target capture, and the role of surfaces and particles in binding forces, providing insights for developing more efficient lateral flow assays. It might be a helpful guide for your specifc assay devlopment! My key takeaways are: 1. Optimizing Antibody-Antigen Interaction: Select antibodies with high affinity for target antigens. This includes considering the dissociation constant (Kd) – lower values typically indicate stronger binding. This enhances sensitivity, allowing the test to detect lower levels of the target antigen. 2. Particle Conjugates and Surface Area: Utilize larger particles, as they provide more surface area for antibody conjugation. This increases the likelihood of antigen capture, which can lead to stronger signal generation. It's important to balance the size to maintain fluid flow and prevent clogging in the assay. 3. Conjugation Techniques: Implement the most suitable conjugation method. Passive adsorption is simpler but may lead to variable orientation of antibodies. Covalent bonding offers more control and stability, but it can be more complex and potentially affect antibody activity. 4. Antibody Density on Particles: Achieve the right balance in antibody density. While a higher density can improve sensitivity, it can also cause steric hindrance that interferes with antigen binding. Optimal density should maximize antigen capture without significant hindrance. 4. Thermodynamics and Kinetics: Design the assay with an understanding of binding kinetics and reaction rates. This involves considering the rates of antibody-antigen interaction and ensuring that the assay conditions allow for these reactions to occur efficiently. 5. Surface and Particle Interactions: Pay attention to the impact of surface chemistry on particle behavior. The nature of the particle surface can affect antibody orientation and activity, impacting overall assay performance. 6. Balancing Sensitivity and Specificity: Tailor assay components for a balance between detecting low concentrations of the target (sensitivity) and minimizing non-specific binding that leads to false positives (specificity). This may involve optimizing buffer conditions, wash steps, and blocker agents. Thanks Kristin for assembling this! #LFA #lateralflow #assaydevelopment

The 6 Thinking Hats Method - How to efficiently analyze new ideas and problems with clear thinking  #ProblemSolving #Innovation #LifeSciences #LateralFlowTests #DiagnosticDevelopment #CollaborativeThinking #CreativeSolutions"

As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on an incredible journey that began with an unforgettable south east Asia vacation with two of my dearest friends and the launch of my consulting business. From the outset, I stepped into the dynamic world of lateral flow test consulting, guiding a handful of companies through complex challenges. This would not have been possible without the enormous support of my family, who stood by me as I established my online presence, crafted content, and ventured into the realm of social media. Your feedback - my dear followers - has been so encouraging, telling me that my content is - often - not only interesting but also sometimes inspiring and helpful. This year was also about stepping out into the world, attending conferences and fairs on my own, engaging in countless digital and in-person discussions. Each conversation was a learning opportunity, teaching me more about myself, the nuances of consulting, and the super power of listening. I am deeply grateful for every interaction, every piece of advice, and every shared moment. To my family, clients, and the new contacts who have opened my eyes to fresh perspectives - thank you. Your support has been instrumental in my journey, and I eagerly anticipate what the future holds. Here's to a year of change, growth, learning, and meaningful connections. Cheers to what's next! Disclaimer: Pictures were generated using DALL-E.

🌟 Golden Insights: What Every LF Developer should know about Antibody Immobilization. 🌟   Lateral Flow Tests (LFTs) are synonymous with rapid diagnostics, and at their core lie the gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), which are a very important factor for enhancing assay performance. The methodology employed in immobilizing antibodies onto these nanoparticles is both a precise and scientific endeavor that significantly influences the test's sensitivity, specificity, and overall performance. In this carousel, I describe the fundamental aspects of antibody immobilization on AuNPs, from the basics to the different strategies. Swipe ➡️ to explore the process of antibody immobilization and how tailoring this step can significantly advance your lateral flow assays.   For those interested to explore further, the following articles and papers provide further explanations of the world of AuNPs antibody immobilization:   https://lnkd.in/eZ_ftdMt https://lnkd.in/edAsxSvy https://lnkd.in/e83nfuHv https://lnkd.in/epZZw5rN   Disclaimer: All visuals were crafted using DALL-E or SketchWow.   #GoldNanoparticles #AntibodyImmobilization #LateralFlowTests #DiagnosticInnovation