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Biochemical Analysis Laboratory |
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In this laboratory, biomarker work is performed that provides insight into health status and risk of disease. Biochemical investigation of possible novel strategies for treatment and prevention of disease is also performed. This work involves a range of sophisticated equipment encompassing spectrophotometric, electrochemical and chromatographic techniques. These techniques are applied to the testing of biological samples (for example blood plasma and urine) and extracts of herbs, foods and drugs. |
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Major instruments: |
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Waters Millennium HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) systems
with Photodiodearray, Fluorescence and Electrochemical Detectors
HPLC is a chromatographic technique that enables the sensitive and specific separation, identification and measurement of components, such as lipid peroxidation degradation products, hormones, drugs and vitamins. |
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Cobas Fara Centrifugal Analyzer and Hitachi 902 Biochemical Analyzer
These analyzers are used to measure, for example, the total antioxidant content of biological fluids (using our patented test, the FRAP assay), red blood cell antioxidant enzymes (SOD and GPx), plasma glucose levels, and biomarkers of liver function, renal function, immune function, nutritional status and risk of cardiovascular disease. |
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Scanning Photodiodearray Spectrophotometer and Scanning Spectrofluorimeter
For identification and measurement of compounds based on their spectral and fluorescent characteristics. |
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ISE Analyzer
Ion selective electrodes (ISEs) are used to specifically and directly measure the activity or concentration of electrolytes (such as sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium etc.) in biological samples. |
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Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer
This machine is capable of highly sensitive and specific measurement of trace metals, and minerals, including iron, magnesium, lithium and lead. |
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Automated ELISA Microplate Reader
This automated plate reader is used for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) in which specific antibodies labelled with a chromogen or dye are used to detect specific analytes. This technique is used for the specific and sensitive measurement hormones and drugs. This instrument is also used for other microplate colourimetric tests, such as applied to cell viability testing, and measurement of hydrogen peroxide in urine. |
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