The Abbott IMx automated benchtop immunochemistry analyzer system.
We describe a new clinical laboratory instrument, the IMx, used to automate immunoassay testing in the clinical laboratory. The IMx incorporates a novel technology called Microparticle capture Enzyme ImmunoAssay (MEIA) for assays of high-molecular-mass analytes, and fluorescence polarization immunoassay (FPIA) for hapten assays. A front-surface fluorometer is used to quantify the enzymatic generation of fluorescent product at a rate proportional to the concentration of the analyte in an MEIA, and a fluorescence polarization optical system is used to quantify results in an FPIA. The microprocessor-based instrument uses a robotic arm with two degrees of freedom and a rotating carousel to process the samples for assay. One assay can be done on each of 24 patients' specimens in 30 to 40 min with "walk-away" automation. Calibration curves are stable for at least two weeks. Instrument control involves software-labeled "command keys," a numeric keypad, and an interactive display. Results are output to a thermal printer or computer interface.
Fiore
M
M
Abbott Laboratories, N. Chicago, IL 60064.
Mitchell
J
J
Doan
T
T
Nelson
R
R
Winter
G
G
Grandone
C
C
Zeng
K
K
Haraden
R
R
Smith
J
J
Harris
K
K
D001322:Autoanalysis / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006063:Chorionic Gonadotropin / Q000032:analysis; D005454:Fluorescence Polarization; D005470:Fluorometry; D006358:Hot Temperature; D006801:Humans; D006923:Hymecromone / Q000031:analogs & derivatives / Q000032:analysis; D007118:Immunoassay / Q000295:instrumentation*; D007124:Immunoenzyme Techniques; D055095:Optics and Photonics; D000509:alpha-Fetoproteins / Q000032:analysis
D006063:Chorionic Gonadotropin; D000509:alpha-Fetoproteins; C005359:4-methylumbelliferyl phosphate; D006923:Hymecromone