Enzymes are biological catalysts in the form of proteins that are commonly used for chemical reactions in many industrial processes. Like many other proteins foreign to the human body, however, enzymes can cause allergic reactions, and their potential inhalation even in small quantities can be a threat to a safe working environment.
Analytical tools are often required for monitoring the working environment and detecting enzyme dust, aerosol and protein residues down to a 0.1 ng/mL level in facilities where enzymes are used, especially if large quantities are handled on a daily basis. To date, the only available method for determining that threshold limit values for airborne enzymes are not being exceeded is through the use of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), a time consuming technique requiring high-tech laboratory facilities.
MagnaBioSciences, in collaboration with Novozymes A/S, has developed the MICT® Termamyl Test – a quantitative, quick, easy and reliable analytical method to supplement or substitute ELISA methods without the need for specialized facilities.
| MICT® Termamyl Test* | |
| Test Description | A rapid quantitative specific Termamyl immunoassay, based upon the MICT® technology |
| Test workflow | The assay procedure is simple, allowing the test may be used in the field. A minimum of training is required, and there is no need for advanced laboratory facilities. |
| Time to result | The MICT® is a quick (< 30 min.) and easy alternative to ELISA (5 hours) |
| Sensitivity | The limit of detection is approximately 0.1 ng/mL, which is close to the ELISA LOD. |
| Dynamic Range | 2.5-30 ng/mL. Increasing signals are observed up to 100ng/mL. |
| Reproducibility | ≤ 10% |
*Test made possible with supply and testing of enzymes and specific sera by Novozymes A/S