title: Automation of biochip array technology for quality results.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Proteomics' requirement for simultaneous measurement of multiple markers is now possible with biochip array technology. Many laboratories utilise in-house, manual procedures for biochip fabrication and sample testing. Reproducibility and standardisation of biochip processes is vital to ensure quality of results and offer the best tool for elucidation of complex relationships between multiple proteins in diseased conditions.
  
  
  METHODS
  Various novel control checks have been implemented in biochip fabrication, reagent manufacture, automation and imaging processes for the Evidence analyser. Reference spots enable location of discrete test regions on the surface of the biochip and simultaneous quantification of multiple markers. Performance and standardisation methods are presented.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Formulation of dispense solution for discrete test regions had a direct effect on their shape, stability and integrity on the biochip surface. Assays for fertility hormones and drugs of abuse demonstrated excellent precision, stability and comparison with other commercial methods.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Control processes employed in the manufacture and analysis of Evidence components ensure reproducibility of assays for a range of routine and novel markers.
authors.affiliation: Randox Laboratories, Diamond Road, Crumlin, UK.
authors.forename: Roisin M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: Molloy
authors.forename: Robert I
authors.initials: RI
authors.lastname: Mc Connell
authors.forename: John V
authors.initials: JV
authors.lastname: Lamont
authors.forename: Stephen P
authors.initials: SP
authors.lastname: FitzGerald
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001322:Autoanalysis; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000032:analysis; D015374:Biosensing Techniques / Q000379:methods*; D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques; D016207:Cytokines / Q000032:analysis / Q000592:standards; D005298:Fertility / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D006728:Hormones / Q000378:metabolism / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans; D040081:Protein Array Analysis / Q000379:methods*; D040901:Proteomics / Q000379:methods; D011786:Quality Control; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012107:Research Design; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D015415:Biomarkers; D016207:Cytokines; D006728:Hormones