Randox introduces new biochip for simultaneous screening of antibiotics

Randox Laboratories has produced a biochip screening test which is able to detect sulphonamide antibiotic drug residues in meat, honey, feed and livestock.

The anti-microbial array measures samples for 12 different antibiotics- simultaneously and quantitatively.

According to the company, antibiotics are sometimes utilised to control disease within food animals but the drug residues can often pose a health risk to consumers.

Specifically, allergies to sulphonamide antibiotics are common and can cause skin rashes, hives, pruritus and anaphylactic shock.

Randox added that it is "essential to restrict antibiotic drug residues in foods, both to avoid unnecessary consumer exposure to drugs, and to limit the development of antibiotic resistance by ensuring antibiotics are used correctly and responsibly".

The new anti-microbial array works by utilising a biochip which contains a range of immobilised antibodies, each specific to a different antibiotic.

Randox claims it can simultaneously test for 12 sulphonamide antibiotics in 50 microlitres of urine or one gram of tissue, honey or feed.

Meanwhile, in more news from the international diagnostics company, it has launched a new test to help researchers learn more about cardiovascular disease and neurological disorders.

The new biochip array technology allows researchers to test for up to 23 biomarkers in each patient’s sample.