Pioneering Technology from Research to the Laboratory
DiagnosTechs is committed to using the most effective technology available and over the last several years has made significant investments in new laboratory technology to refine and improve our testing standards. We employ several gold standard mass spectrometry technologies for quantification of a variety of clinically important analytes. Our precision instrumentation includes gas and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS) for sensitive and exact molecular identification, matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry for quick and comprehensive identification of microorganisms, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS/MS) for trace level analysis of heavy metals and other clinically relevant elements.
Inductively Coupled Plasma Tandem Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS/MS)
Our Inductively Coupled Plasma Tandem Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS/MS) provides DiagnosTechs the ability to perform elemental analysis in clinical specimens with unparalleled accuracy, precision, and detection.
The ICP-MS/MS platform allows for trace level analysis in complex matrices with minimal sample preparation by employing the reaction mode capability of the Agilent 8800 Triple Quad. DiagnosTechs currently is developing and validating methods for a comprehensive suite of tests for heavy metals and other clinically relevant elements in saliva, urine, and blood. Future prospective metals panels also include analyses of hair and nails.
Liquid Chromatography – Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer (LC-MS/MS)
The LC-MS/MS also allows for the quantification of small molecules as well as peptides with minimal sample preparation. This makes the mass spectrometer efficient and extremely well suited for biomarker research and hormone analysis. Our research and development team is now able to quantify thyroid hormones as well as large proteins like thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) with an accuracy that is seen only using triple quad mass spectrometers.
Gas Chromatography – Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS/MS)
The GC-MS/MS allows us to measure trace amounts of volatile organic compounds like steroid hormones and other small molecules. The instrument’s sensitivity allows for quantification of the low levels of hormones seen in saliva. With the triple quad’s ability to absolutely identify a compound, we offer an unparalleled confidence in our test results. DiagnosTechs also uses the mass spectrometer to develop our immunoassays, ensuring the utmost accuracy in a wide range of tests.
MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry
Available in only 10 percent of clinical laboratories in the United States, this unit facilitates the most accurate microbial identification available, with the capability of identifying more than 4,000 microorganisms – 100 times more than standard methods are able to identify. This process requires a fraction of the time required for standard culturing methods, providing you with much faster and more comprehensive results. DiagnosTechs is one of the only noninvasive reference laboratories to offer this level of accurate, rapid microbial identification.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
PCR is a highly refined technology that amplifies DNA and RNA sequences, offering a way to accurately and rapidly detect pathogens otherwise not readily cultured or visualized, as well as identifying clinically relevant genetic markers or mutations. This technology also gives DiagnosTechs the ability to identify the presence of common resistance genes without the need for culture, quickly providing the information you need to prescribe an effective treatment for your patients.
Xantus and Hamilton Liquid Handling Systems
DiagnosTechs uses strict quality control procedures to monitor sample handling, data gathering, and results reporting. To meet the processing requirements of the high volume of patient samples we receive, the Xantus and Hamilton liquid handling systems are used to rapidly and accurately transfer precise amounts of clinical samples and testing components.
The VITEK® 2 ID/AST
This unit utilizes the latest advancements to provide an accurate, rapid susceptibility report. This technology is the fastest method available to check for susceptibility of bacteria. With the accuracy of this identification system, our microbiology laboratory is able to quickly provide effective antibiotic choices based on bacterial sensitivity and resistance information.
Ova and Parasite (O&P) Testing
DiagnosTechs’ ova and parasite testing method relies on immunoassays in addition to conventional microscopy methods. Our parasitology department uses the most advanced microscopes available, and our parasitologists are highly trained in parasite, yeast, and host cell identification.