The Abbott IMx(TM) automated benchtop immunochemistry analyzer system

Abstract

We describe a new clinical laboratory instrument, the IMx(TM), used to automate immunoassay testing in the clinical laboratory. The IMx incorporates a novel technology called Microparticle capture Enzyme ImmunoAssay (MEIA) for assays of high-molecular-mass analytes, and fluorescence polarization immunoassay (FPIA) for hapten assays. A front-surface fluorometer is used to quantify the enzymatic generation of fluorescent product at a rate proportional to the concentration of the analyte in a MEIA, and a fluorescence polarization optical system is used to quantify results in an FPIA. The microprocessor-based instrument uses a robotic arm with two degrees of freedom and a rotating carousel to process the samples for assay. One assay can be done on each of 24 patients' specimens in 30 to 40 min with 'walk-away' automation. Calibration curves are stable for at least two weeks. Instrument control involves software-labeled 'command keys', a numeric keypad, and an interactive display. Results are output to a thermal printer or computer interface.