Midlothian-based biotech firm Arrayjet has secured a new $1 million contract with US-based CDI Laboratories to prove instruments for its research into proteins.
Arrayjet's equipment allows scientists to print combinations of as many as 22,000 microscopic proteins onto 'protein chips'. These 'microarrays' are used to test how proteins interact in different situations, known as the field of proteomics, which can be applied to identifying biomarkers for cancers and finding vaccines.
Applications can also include testing for antigens and antibodies, monitoring food standards and the search for potential drugs.
Arrayjet's technology enables researchers to analyse thousands of protein interactions using minimal amounts of research team and clinical samples.
CDI Laboratories is based in Baltimore, Maryland and Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.
Vice president Scott D Paschke said: “The CDI mission is to empower research and development in proteomics with proprietary technologies. In essence, we create tools that help accelerate research by designing tools to improve research in the area of proteomics.
"We are very excited about our continued affiliation. ArrayJet’s printing technology is certainly cutting edge and we expect it to significantly improve our capacity and quality. It was chosen because of its ability to print large numbers of high quality arrays with the least amount of quality control problems.
"Because of the printer’s speed and versatility, it will significantly improve CDI’s manufacturing capabilities and enable us to meet increasing customer demand.”
The contract will involve the IRIS Optical QC system which has a dual camera mounted on either side of the printhead. Roslin-based Arrayjet previously supplied its Ultra Marathon II high throughput microarray printer for CDI in 2015.
Gavin Boothroyd, commercial manager, North America for Arrayjet, said: “We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with CDI and to continue to play an integral part in helping them achieve their growth plans.
"The contract is a great endorsement of our technology and capabilities for accuracy, precision and quality. It also demonstrates the best in class customer support that Arrayjet provides to all clients."
