Abstract: A method of determining whether an individual is infected with mycobacteria. The method comprising the steps of (a) providing a system which comprises at least two different mycolic-acid derived antigens; (b) introducing a sample obtained from the individual into the system and into contact with each of the at least two different mycolic-acid derived antigens; and (c) detecting the presence or absence of the binding of a biomarker in the sample with each antigen in the system. The method may be particularly suitable for determining the presence or absence of a disease antibody indicative of infection with any disease caused by infection with mycobacteria, for example tuberculosis, leprosy, pulmonary disease, burili ulcer, Johne's disease and bovine tuberculosis. A kit and device are also described. The present invention may provide an over the counter device to allow individuals to check on a routine basis that they have normal immune responses.

Abstract: A method of determining the presence or absence in a sample of a biomarker, the method comprising: (a) linking an antigen to colloidal gold to provide a gold-antigen species; (b) contacting the gold-antigen species with the sample; (c) adding a diagnosis agent to the sample; and (d) observing the color of the sample.

Abstract: A method of determining the presence or absence in a sample of a biomarker, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a porous substrate which carries an antigen; (b) contacting the substrate with the sample; (c) contacting the substrate with a composition comprising a secondary antibody; and (d) observing the substrate. The method may enable a very quick, simple test to be carried out to determine whether or not a particular sample contains a biomarker, for example an antibody indicative of infection with a mycobacterial disease. A kit and a device for determining the presence or absence in a sample of a biomarker are also described.

Abstract: A method of determining whether an individual is infected with mycobacteria. The method comprising the steps of (a) providing a system which comprises at least two different mycolic-acid derived antigens; (b) introducing a sample obtained from the individual into the system and into contact with each of the at least two different mycolic-acid derived antigens; and (c) detecting the presence or absence of the binding of a biomarker in the sample with each antigen in the system. The method may be particularly suitable for determining the presence or absence of a disease antibody indicative of infection with any disease caused by infection with mycobacteria, for example tuberculosis, leprosy, pulmonary disease, burili ulcer, Johne's disease and bovine tuberculosis. A kit and device are also described. The present invention may provide an over the counter device to allow individuals to check on a routine basis that they have normal immune responses.

Abstract: A method of determining the presence or absence in a sample of a biomarker, the method comprising: (a) linking an antigen to colloidal gold to provide a gold-antigen species; (b) contacting the gold-antigen species with the sample; (c) adding a diagnosis agent to the sample; and (d) observing the colour of the sample.