In a previous article (Article #5) we introduced StickyCell’s platform technology, Leukocyte Adhesive Function Assay (LAFA). Here we’ll explain how we measure inflammation using LAFA technology.
Leukocyte recruitment from the blood to the surrounding tissue, a hallmark of inflammation, requires adhesion of the leukocytes to the blood vessel endothelial cells (Article #2). The stronger the adhesion, or the “stickier” the leukocytes are, the more likely recruitment will occur and produce inflammation. LAFA measures the “stickiness” of leukocytes and the resultant inflammation.
To perform LAFA assays three main products are required: LAFA single-use kits, LAFA analysers and LAFA analysis software.
The single-use kit contains microfluidic chips and all other consumables and reagents required to perform assays. Microfluidic chips are coated with adhesive substrates, which mimics the function of endothelial cells to induce leukocyte recruitment. Leukocytes in blood samples are fluorescently labelled using the reagents provided in the LAFA single-use kits.
The blood sample and microfluidic chip are loaded into the LAFA analyser; a microfluidic, fluorescent image-capturing system. The LAFA analysis software controls the flow of blood through the microfluidic chip at a defined flow rate, mimicking blood microcirculation in vitro. The interaction between leukocytes and pre-coated adhesive substrates is captured by a live cell imaging system.
The recorded images are analysed by proprietary software. The data exacted by the LAFA analysis software assesses the leukocyte’s ability to adhere to specific adhesive substrates, providing a quantitative measurement of the leukocyte’s potential to cause inflammation.
The amount of blood required for each assay is low and the turnaround time for obtaining results is fast. There is encouraging potential for LAFA to develop into point-of-care testing to support clinicians in making critical clinical decisions (Article #5).
StickyCell is continually developing and optimising the LAFA process. We’re hoping in time the LAFA assays will be performed by laboratory technicians with a certain level of training.
We will keep you regularly informed of our progress.
Key points:
To perform LAFA assays three main products are required: LAFA single-use kits, LAFA analysers and LAFA analysis software.
The LAFA testing end results give an accurate assessment of an individuals leukocyte’s potential to cause inflammation which can lead to disease.
The amount of blood required for each assay is low and the turnaround time for obtaining results is fast.
In time the LAFA assays will be performed by laboratory technicians with a certain level of training.