Our Technology
Our Technology
Genomic Laboratory Technologies
Relatively new to the Randox Group is our Randox Genomics Services department, having been hugely successful in aiding the COVID testing programme, our established sequencing laboratory has been specifically designed and set up to fulfil a unique range of testing from our specialised laboratory in Northern Ireland.
Nucleic Acid Extraction and Isolation
Thermo Scientific KingFisher Flex
Automated nucleic acid extraction instruction that provides high throughput purification of up to 96 samples per run within 40 minutes.
Sample Quality Control
ThermoFisher Scientific Qubit 3.0 & Qubit Flex
Capable of fast and specific nucleic acid quantification using fluorescence-based dye application, suitable for a lower throughput. More sensitive and accurate protocol than UV absorbance.
ThermoFisher Scientific Varioskan LUX
Capable of rapid fluorescence-based UV absorbance nucleic acid analysis, suitable for high throughput of processing samples.
Agilent 4200 TapeStation System
An automated electrophoresis solution that with a scalable throughput (1-96 samples) can provide results in 1-2 minutes per plate with excellent reproducibility for sizing, concentration and integrity assessment.
Liquid Handling
Tecans
Freedom EVO 150 base unit tecans, are automated liquid handling machines, enabling fully traceable, scalable (1-96 samples) automated library preparation including QC and library pooling.
Integra Viaflo 384
Viaflo 384 enables transfers of 24, 96 and 384 samples in a single step, thus increasing pipetting throughput and reproducibility significantly.
Integra Assist Plus
Pipette adapter: accommodates all Integra electronic multichannel pipettes- with fixed and adjustable tip spacing and the D-One single channel pipetting module.
Sequencing
Applied Biosystems SeqStudio Genetic Analyser
Low-throughput benchtop system that delivers gold-standard Sanger sequencing technology and fragment analysis, easily used across a broad range of applications.
Next Generation Sequencing
MiSeq
The MiSeq System is capable of automated paired-end reads and up to 15 Gb per run, delivering over 600 bases of sequence data per read.
NextSeq 2000
NextSeq 2000 System supports emerging and mid-throughput sequencing applications as well as a broad range of methods such as exome sequencing, target enrichment, single-cell profiling, transcriptome sequencing, and more. It offers an intuitive workflow with load-and-go ease and visual cues about run status. The NextSeq 2000 allows whole-exome sequencing of up to 48 samples in 33 hours.
NovaSeq6000
The most powerful sequencing instrument Illumina produce with the ability to provide scalable throughput for efficient whole-genome, whole exome and whole-transcriptome sequencing through sequencing by synthesis and patterned flow cell technology.
Genotyping
Illumina iScan
An innovative array scanner that supports rapid, sensitive, and accurate imaging of Illumina BeadChips for exceptional genetic analysis results. The iScan System can scan thousands of array samples per day, without sacrificing data quality or reproducibility. It supports an expansive portfolio of genetic analysis assays, from high-throughput genotyping to DNA methylation analysis.
Useful Resources
CDx & Biopharma Services
Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)
Next Generation Sequencing
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a sequencing technology that offers speed, scalability and ultra-high throughput. The technology can be used to determine the order of nucleotides in entire genomes or targeted regions of DNA or RNA. NGS has applications in environmental, agricultural and forensic science as well as genomic and clinical research.
NGS Capabilities
Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) is a wildly used NGS method that involves sequencing every protein coding region (approximately 21,000 genes) to identify any variants that may increase the risk of developing certain conditions or impact health/lifestyle. WES can be used across a broad range of applications including genetic disease, population genetics and cancer studies.
Advantages
- Attains widespread coverage of coding regions
- Cost effective alternative to Whole-Genome Sequencing (WGS)
- Smaller data set provides faster and easy data analysis compared to WGS approaches
Human Whole Genome Sequencing (hWGS) involves sequencing very single base in your DNA (approximately 3.2 billion) to identify any variants that may increase the risk of developing certain conditions or impact health/lifestyle. This sequencing method has many applications including identifying genetic disorders, mutations responsible for cancer progression, as well as monitoring disease outbreaks.
Advantages
- High-resolution view of the genome
- Detection of all variant types
- Low cost, fast library preparation
16s rRNA gene sequencing involves the analysis of the prokaryotic 16s ribosomal RNA gene which is found in all bacteria and archaea. This sequencing approach is extremely useful for microbiome research studies. 16s rRNA gene sequencing has a number of applications including, environmental, clinical and food
Advantages
- Identification and taxonomic classification of bacterial species
- Fast speed and cost efficient
- Discovery of novel pathogens
Shotgun sequencing reads all the genomic DNA in the sample, rather than just one specific region. This sequencing method provides a vast amount of genetic information as it can identify archaea, bacteria, fungi and viruses.
Advantages
- Less labour intensive than other sequencing methods.
- Faster process than clone-clone sequencing
- Requires less DNA
qPCR
qPCR allows for the analysis of particular variants of specific locations. It is a good choice when interrogating a small region of DNA on a limited number of samples. Real-time PCR can be used for both qualitative and quantitative analysis.
Advantages and Applications of qPCR
Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) Advantages
High sample throughput
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High sensitivity
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Comprehensive genomic coverage
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Can sequence thousands of genes simultaneously
- Low sample input required
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Fast turnaround time for high sample volumes
Related Services
CDx & Biopharma Services
Genotyping Services
Genotyping Services
The Randox Genomics Services Department currently has target genotyping solutions in multiple areas. Genotyping is the process of analysing DNA to detect SNPs of interest. These SNPs are compared to reference SNPs, available from years of genetic research, to determine differences in genetic makeup.
Genotyping Advantages and Applications
Clinical Diagnostics
Clinical Research
Food & Agriculture
Pharmacogenomics
Pharmacogenomics (PGx) is the study of how a person’s DNA effects their drug response. This is a relatively new field in science but it is expected to be the future of medicine as it focuses on personalised medicine and treating every patient individually.
Microarray Technology for PGx
At Randox we use Illumina’s Infinium Global Diversity Array with Enhanced PGx microarray to test for pharmacogenomic markers. This is the most comprehensive genotyping microarray on the market for pharmacogenomic research. The microarray features over 44,000 genome-wide PGx markers which span more than 20000 pharmacogenomic targets and gives 100% coverage of priority level A and B CPIC genes.
Related Services
CDx & Biopharma Services
Genomics Services
Genomics Services
An End-to-End Genomics Solution
Randox Genomics Services department is fitted with specialised, fully equipped, state of the art testing facilities, designed and set up to fulfil a unique range of end-to-end sequencing solutions inclusive of in-house bioinformaticians and data analysts.
Why Randox?
Randox Laboratories is a global market leader within the in vitro diagnostics industry. Utilising a multitude of platforms, our sequencing and genotyping facility is suited to a wide range of areas of genome sequencing.
Our team of genetic scientists and bioinformaticians provide customisable sequencing and genotyping services for research, development, validation and running of different genomic tests to generate high quality data in line with modern healthcare and future disease insights.
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A dedicated team of genetic scientists including automation specialists, enabling adaption to testing throughputs changes from call small projects to large scale testing.
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Huge capacity for storage and accessioning of multiple sample types with fast turnaround times.
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Specific customised project planning and validation of services, tailored to the needs of each Randox customer.
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Multiple options for variable throughput from low throughput instruments, to the largest sequencer on the market with targeted solutions in multiple areas.
- Targeted genotyping solutions in multiple areas
Our Services
Related Services
CDx & Biopharma Services
OLINK
OLINK® | Comprehensive Biomarker Discovery
Let Experts at Randox Run Your Samples
As one of the UK’s first commercial partners of Olink® Proximity Extension Assay (PEA) technology, Randox offer scientists involved in drug development, clinical, or basic life science research, the service they need to run large-scale discovery proteomics.
Randox offer customers access to the entire Olink® protein library of ~3000 protein assays for exploratory proteomics and multiomics.
Olink® Technology- How it Works
Olink Proximity Extension Assay (PEA) technology offers a new method for measuring & detecting proteins of interest in a wide variety of sample types.
Using real-time PCR amplification, Olink platforms such as the Explore 3072 uses dual recognition with antibody- protein pairs in high multiplex to create 96 unique DNA reporter sequences. Using this approach, researchers can incorporate Olink’s kits into their workflow to measure and detect low abundance proteins whilst ensuring exceptional specificity and accuracy in serum or plasma samples.
The platform uses PEA technology combined with Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) readout methods to measure the relative concentration of proteins in liquid samples.
Workflow
Olink®- Driving the Future of Healthcare
Driven by precision medicine, the future of healthcare relies on a new generation of therapies to deliver the right treatment to the right patients at the right time. Proteomics is set to be at the forefront of this movement.
Technological limitations previously restricted comprehensive investigations of proteomics. Inhibiting large scale studies examining broad ranges of proteins in large numbers of human samples.
Olink® PEA technology provides an example as to how technological developments have eradicated past issues involving:
-Poor sensitivity
-Low throughput
-Large sample volume needed
-Lack of specificity
Features and Benefits
- Covers all major biological pathways with ~3000 validated protein assays
- High sample throughput for large scale proteomic studies and research
- Minimal sample volume with just 60uL for the complete library
- Exceptional specificity in comparison to mass spec utilising PEA technology
- Compatible with a wide variety of sample types
Randox Successfully Completed Olink® Concordance Testing
Randox successfully completed the Explore Concordance challenge as beta testers of the Concordance program, certifying the ability to operate the PEA with the same level of competency as the Olink® Analysis Service.
| Randox Summary Report | Acceptance Criteria | Result | |
|---|---|---|---|
| QC Warnings | 0% | Max 16% allowed | Passed the QC warning criteria |
| Detectability | 97.2% | Min 85% allowed | Passed the detectability criteria |
| Intra CV | 9% | Max 15% allowed | Passed the CV criteria |
| Median correlation coefficient (r) | 0.98 | Min 0.9 allowed | Passed the correlation criteria. |
| Coefficient of determination (R2) | 0.96 | Min 0.9 allowed | Passed the correlation criteria. |
Overall, Randox passed all QC criteria, successfully passing the Olink Concordance Test on Explore 3072.
Related Services
CDx & Biopharma Services
Randox Biosciences Resource Hub
Biosciences Overview
Biosciences
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Your Next Trusted Partner
What we do.
As an established IVD company, Randox Biosciences offers tailored development and testing solutions to support faster, more effective and safe development of new therapeutics. We aim to advance scientific discovery, drug development & diagnostics.
From initial cultivation of raw materials for assay development, through to providing companion diagnostics, molecular and protein based custom assays across a range of therapeutic areas, we assist Pharma, Biotechs and CROs move away from a “one treatment fits all” approach. Our aim is to advance the future of personalised medicine approaches to enable a better understanding of the complexity and variability of disease and increase efficacy of treatment.
We are your next trusted partner to achieve precise results, for faster drug approval through successful assay design, validation, registrations and co-commercialisation globally.
We are a world leading manufacturer of high -quality monoclonal and polyclonal antibody fragments and human recombinant proteins to assist diagnostic manufacturers. We also strive to assist clinical trials globally to reach their potential with the ability to provide multiplex technology, custom assay development, along with outsourcing solutions for testing.
Additionally, Randox Biosciences provides a wide range of assay formats including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) genotyping, pathogen detection and mutation detection. Offering complete flexibility to achieve success in any collaborative partnership, assay development can be optimised for use on a wide range of third-party instruments and with the Randox Evidence Series – Biochip Technology platforms.
Our Expertise.
CDx & BioPharma Services
RCLS Testing
BioReagents
Resource Hub
Randox Biosciences and Metabolic Syndrome
The Evidence Evolution is a fully automated immune-analyser with random access. The machine has the capability to process up to 2640 tests per hour with up to 44 analytes screened per biochip. With a wide range test menu Randox can offer the market the service they expect with state-of-the-art intuitive touchscreen software and advanced precision bio-drive robotics.
Metabolic syndrome is described as a combination of diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity. As result of three health conditions going on, it puts the individual at greater risk of developing coronary heart disease, stroke and many other risks. 1 As well as developing additional health conditions it can cause damage to the blood vessels, the blood pressure damages the blood vessels, the obesity causes a lot of strain on the blood vessels and the heart.2 Therefore, can result in serious long-term risks.
Metabolic disease is very common. Studies state that the serious health condition affects about 23% of adults. 3One in four adults in the UK are currently living with metabolic syndrome and often becomes more common with age2.
Usually it affects those who are overweight or considered obese, have an unbalanced diet containing high levels of sugar and fat and have high cholesterol and extremely high blood pressure2 therefore, the condition can be prevented by reducing the risks.
1 According to the NHS, metabolic syndrome occurs when a person has three or more of the following measurements:
- Abdominal obesity (Waist circumference of greater than 40 inches in men, and greater than 35 inches in women)
- Triglyceride level of 150 milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL) or greater
- HDL cholesterol of less than 40 mg/dL in men or less than 50 mg/dL in women
- Systolic blood pressure (top number) of 130 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or greater, or diastolic blood pressure (bottom number) of 85 mm Hg or greater
- Fasting glucose of 100 mg/dL or greater
There are many ways to prevent metabolic syndrome from developing, making lifestyle changes for example, ensuring their weight is healthy by increasing physical exercise, eating a well-balanced healthy diet containing whole grains, fruit, vegetables and fish and finally, visiting the GP to monitor and manage blood glucose, blood cholesterol and blood pressure, quit smoking and managing your stress.
Randox offers the Evidence Evolution including two Metabolic Syndrome Arrays which allows multiplex testing from a single sample allowing rapid turnaround time and are suitable for both serum and plasma samples.
Metabolic Syndrome Array I
- Ferritin
- Interleukin-6 (IL-6)
- Insulin
- Leptin
- Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1)
- Resistin
- Tumour Necrosis Factor α (TNFα)
Metabolic Syndrome Array II
- Adiponectin
- C-reactive Protein (CRP)
- Cystatin C
For more information on our Evidence Series or Metabolic Syndrome Range of Assays, contact us at EvidenceSeries@randox.com
Randox Biosciences and Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH)
Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disorder where the child is born with extremely high cholesterol levels. FH can trace back through several generations. Cholesterol is vital for the normal function of the human body therefore, it is important to ensure the cholesterol levels don’t get too high because it can result in early onset cardiovascular disease. 1
The FH Foundation states an interesting fact that 1 in 250 people worldwide have FH and over 90% of these people have not been properly diagnosed 2. Majority of these people won’t know they have FH disease until they have a heart attack!
However, there are no clear symptoms if someone has FH until it is too late and the damage has been done. The warning signs include the following:1
- Swollen tendons/fatty lumps on the knuckles of your hands, at the back of your ankles and knees
- Cholesterol deposits around the eye-lids (looks like pale and yellowish patches)
- Gray-white cholesterol deposits around the corneas
A study in 2008 by the British Heart Foundation found that people with FH who are diagnosed and treated before they develop heart disease live as long people who don’t have FH 4. This theory emphasis the importance of getting early diagnosis to prevent long-term problems. Treatment to prevent cardiovascular disease involves taking medication prescribed by the doctor and making lifestyle changes including; modifying diet, increasing exercise, quit smoking, decrease drinking alcohol and ensure the patient gets regular sleep.
Randox offers the Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) Arrays I & II to help encourage early diagnosis with rapid turnaround time allowing results to be reported within days compared to NHS waiting lists which can be substantially longer. The two arrays are rapid, simple and accurate which enables the simultaneous detection of 40 FH-causing mutations (20 mutations per array) within the LDLR, ApoB and PCSK9 genes. The mutational status can be determined rapidly from a single test, with a reduced need for confirmatory testing with NGS. The genetic analysis for FH mutations allows for more accurate diagnosis compared to lipid profiling.
Randox can help using the award-winning Biochip Analyser to achieve early and appropriate treatment for those with FH resulting those to adopt a healthier lifestyle and taking cholesterol-lowering medication, risk of heart disease to live a longer and healthy life!
Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) Arrays I & II:
- LDLR – 38 mutations
- APOB – 1 mutation
- PCSK9 – 1 mutation
To find out more about the products that we offer email us info@randoxbiosciences.com
Reference:
https://www.healthline.com/health/familial-hypercholesterolemia#symptoms
Randox Biosciences: dedicated to advancing scientific discovery
Randox Laboratories is an international clinical diagnostic solutions company with over 35 years’ experience in the industry. Randox is a global market leader, providing revolutionary products for laboratories worldwide and is dedicated to improving health.
Randox Biosciences is part of Randox Laboratories and is dedicated to advancing scientific discovery, drug development and diagnostics. Spanning four key divisions; Life Sciences, Pharma Sciences, Research and Molecular; Randox Biosciences offers complete tailored solutions for clinical and research use.
From initial cultivation of raw materials for assay development, through to providing companion diagnostics, custom and molecular based assays across a range of therapy areas; Randox Biosciences is a trusted partner supplying quality diagnostic solutions to the clinical, life science, pharmaceutical, research and biopharma industries. We specialise in supplying academic centres, genetics laboratories and the global biopharmaceutical industry with products tailored to their specific needs.
Randox Biosciences Research team encompasses a knowledgeable group of who are dedicated to assisting your research project to completion. Recently, the research team has expanded to include Business Development Executives in America to support academic centres of excellence achieve their potential while utilising our quality products. We are proud to welcome Rebecca Newburg who will be focusing her efforts on the US-Midwest market and Celestine Eshiet who will be working on the US -West Coast.
We cover five areas of research such as Sport and Exercise, Cardiovascular, Metabolic, Immunology and Oncology. These five areas include our Metabolic Syndrome Array 1 & 2, Cytokine Arrays and Cardiac Array including CK-MB, H-FABP, Myoglobin and Troponin.
If you work in an academic centre and are interested in our variety of arrays, analysers whether that be chemistry or immunoassay analysers, or our reagents or quality control please do not hesitate to contact us at info@randoxbiosciences.com.
