Argonaut introduces the Isolute PPT+

The new technology, significantly improves the removal of unwanted plasma proteins from biological fluid samples prior to analysis of drug candidates and metabolites and continues the company's strategy of refocusing its business on supplying chemistry consumables for pharmaceutical companies working on drug discovery.

Protein precipitation filterplates are used to remove unwanted components from biological fluids before they are analysed. Traditionally, chemists add a plasma sample to a filterplate before dispensing a precipitating solvent. The sample is then vortex-mixed, a time-consuming process that is difficult to automate. After mixing, the sample is then filtered. This approach often leads to cloudy samples caused by incomplete precipitation.

These new plates, available in both Isolute-96 fixed well and Isolute Array formats, are designed so the solvent is added first, then the plasma sample is then added.

This method does not require mixing and yields cleaner and more dependable results. Studies performed show results of successfully removing 90 per cent of plasma proteins as compared with 60-65 per cent using the old method.

The Isolute PPT+ uses a two-frit design at the bottom of each well. The frits prevent the wells from leaking or becoming clogged, increasing the plate yield and lowering the overall cost of sample preparation.

Commenting on the firms switch in industry focus, chief executive, Lissa Goldenstein said Argonaut's​ R&D, sales and marketing efforts were "focused on three areas critical to drug development: lead compound discovery and development, methods development for safety and toxicity testing, and chemical development for process scale-up to support clinical trials."​

The fixed well plates are available now priced from £45.00 (€68.00) with the versatile Isolute array plate priced from £48.00.