Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the most popular enquiries of our customers

How does the technology work?

Our system uses ring resonators for nanophotonic evanescent field sensing (NES), which operates on a similar principle to Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR). Both methods detect changes in the refractive index when molecules bind to a sensor. However, NES uses light within tiny ring resonators on a silicon chip, offering high sensitivity and enabling the detection of multiple interactions simultaneously (multiplexing). This technology also allows for a more compact design compared to SPR, making NES a powerful and scalable solution for real-time molecular interaction studies.

What is the sensitivity of the inQuiQ™?

The inQuiQ is highly sensitive, able to detect very small refractive index changes with a baseline noise of just 0.01 RU at a 1Hz read-out. To put this into context, this means the inQuiQ can detect miniscule biomolecular interactions, such as the binding of small molecules or slight changes in protein conformations, with high precision. This level of precision is matched by only a few of the top label-free biosensors available today. We’re working on further improvements that we expect will make the inQuiQ even more sensitive, potentially cutting this noise level in half soon.

What is label-free?

Label-free technology detects molecular interactions without needing any additional fluorescent markers or radioactive tags. This approach allows you to study the natural behaviour of your molecules in real-time, giving you more accurate and meaningful data.

How many channels does the inQuiQ have?

The inQuiQ is equipped with 4 flow channels connected in series, each of which can be addressed separately or together in different combinations (e.g., all 4, or just 1-2 or 3-4). Each flow channel contains 4 sensors, giving you a total of 16 sensors to work with. This flexible setup allows you to design experiments according to your specific needs, whether you’re screening for multiple biomarkers or focusing on specific interactions.

How does the multiplexing work?

The inQuiQ allows you to measure multiple interactions simultaneously on a single chip. You can perform up to 4-plex experiments within the system by immobilising different ligands in each of the 4 flow channels. Each flow channel contains 4 sensors, giving you the option to scale up to 16-plex if needed. To test 16 different interactions (one on each sensor), you can customise each sensor spot with a different ligand using a microarray spotter. This setup provides the flexibility to conduct a wide range of experiments in a single run, making data collection both efficient and versatile.

How many samples can the inQuiQ handle?

The inQuiQ is designed to handle 10 samples automatically in a single run, making your experiments efficient and easy to manage.

How much sample do you need?

The inQuiQ requires only a small amount of sample to deliver accurate results, with a minimum of 25 µL per test. However, it can handle up to 2 mL, giving you the flexibility to conduct specific kinetic studies when needed. This range allows you to conserve valuable materials while still performing detailed analyses.

How often can you regenerate the chip?

The sensor chip can be used multiple times, as it can be regenerated to remove the analyte bound to the covalently bound ligand. Depending on the chemistry used for immobilisation and the stability of your ligand, chips can sometimes be regenerated between 100-400 times before they need to be replaced.

What can you immobilise on the chip?

You can attach a wide range of molecules to the chip’s surface, including proteins, DNA/RNA, small molecules, peptides, and more. This flexibility allows you to customize the inQuiQ to your specific research needs.

How do you measure in complex matrices?

The inQuiQ is designed to work well even in complex samples like blood serum or cell culture supernatant. The silicon dioxide chip with a polycarboxylate hydrogel creates an antifouling layer, minimizing non-specific binding. This makes it a powerful tool for measuring analytes in complex matrices.

What’s the price of the instrument?

Because the inQuiQ uses innovative photonics technology, we can offer the instrument at a price of €75,000 (ex. VAT). It provides multiplexed label-free biosensing without compromising on sensitivity. With its robust design and capabilities, the inQuiQ is a cost-effective solution for researchers seeking reliable, real-time data in their studies.

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