Abstract: Methods and assays for performing a lateral flow test are disclosed. A sample is applied to a receiving portion of a lateral flow device such that the sample flows to at least a first test zone and a second test zone. First and second signals levels at the first and second test zones over an assay period are monitored. If a first analyte of interest is present in the sample, the first analyte is labelled and the presence of labelled first analyte in the sample causes one of the first and second signals levels to increase during the assay period. A change between the first and second signal levels over a period of time during the assay period is monitored. The sample can be incubated prior to application to the receiving portion to provide homogeneity to labelling and therefore a substantially linear increase of the signal level at one of the test zones and a substantially constant signal level at the other one of the test zones.

Abstract: In some embodiments a diagnostic system is disclosed including a test device for performing diagnostic analysis of a biological sample from a human or animal body, the test device having an assay and a reader to analyse the sample and determine one or more biological conditions and to generate a result data signal containing information on the determination of the one or more biological conditions. The system also comprises a base device to releasably receive the test device, receive the result data signal from the test device, and display results of testing based on the received result data signal. In some embodiments a fluid receptacle is configured to be releasably retained to a test device, the test device comprising a housing, the housing having an engagement element for releasably retaining the fluid receptacle on an outer surface of the housing.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to nanoparticle aggregates and to methods for preparing nanoparticle aggregates in a controlled manner The nanoparticle aggregates are useful in a variety of applications including detection and quantitation assays. In one illustrative example, the nanoparticle aggregates are particularly useful in medical diagnostic applications.

Abstract: A sampling device for collecting and dispensing a sample is disclosed, the sampling device including a sample collector having an absorbent portion configured to collect a sample and a receiving section configured to receive the sample collector after the collection of the sample. In one embodiment, the receiving section includes a dropper, the sample collector configured to be secured to the dropper, the dropper defining an internal chamber in which the absorbent portion of the sample collector is received when the sample collector is secured to the dropper; and a base releasably engaged with the dropper and at least partially housing the dropper, wherein the dropper is configured to be released from the base to allow dispensing of the sample from the dropper. In one embodiment, the absorbent portion interferes with a surface of an internal chamber of the receiving section. In one embodiment, a length adapter for the sample collector is employed and, in another embodiment, a desiccant housing is employed.

Abstract: Reporter fragments, reporter components, and systems adapted to detect analytes in homogeneous in vitro assays are provided, such assays employing these systems, and methods of making and using same. Particular embodiments include isolated and purified reporter fragments displaying enhanced solubility, reduced aggregation, resistance to inhibitors, and enhanced suitability for use in homogeneous in vitro assays.