R&D Systems to Develop Cytokine Assays for Beckman
By HospiMedica staff writers
Posted on 22 Oct 2003
A nonexclusive, multi-year agreement has been announced by Beckman Coulter (Fullerton, CA, USA) and R&D Systems (Minneapolis, MN, USA) under which R&D Systems will develop automated cytokine assays and manufacture assay components designed for Beckman's Access family of immunoassay systems.Posted on 22 Oct 2003
R&D Systems will develop and manufacture immunoassays based on Beckman Coulter's magnetic particle, chemiluminescent immunoassay technology. The initial focus of the agreement will serve to expand Beckman's leadership position in anemia testing to include erythropoietin, a principal cytokine factor regulating red blood cell production, and soluble transferring receptor (STFR), considered the best indicator of iron deficiency.
Beckman Coulter currently offers a wide array of tests for the diagnosis and monitoring of anemia that are run on its hematology analyzers. The addition of new assays for biologics and cytokines will enhance the company's portfolio of products.
"Because we maintain a best-of-breed philosophy around our assay design, development, and manufacture, R&D Systems was clearly an excellent partner,” said Michael Whelan, vice president, immunoassay and nucleic acid testing, for Beckman Coulter. "Their expertise will be instrumental in our efforts to strengthen our position in the automated immunoassay market.”
Related Links:
Beckman Coulter
R&D Systems