Angsana Molecular & Diagnostics Laboratory today announced that it will provide tests for allergen sensitisation specific for the Asian population using technology from Thermo Fisher Scientific. The tests will be based on Thermo Fisher's ImmunoCAP (CAP) technology and performed by Phadia Laboratory Systems.
While many allergens are common across populations, there has been increased recognition that there are differences among different ethnic groups and across different geographic regions. Factors such as genetics, environmental exposure, diet and social behaviour appear to contribute to this.
Angsana is seeking to define and validate specific tests for allergen sensitisation that are suited to local needs. ImmunoCAP technology is well known for its high specificity and sensitivity, quantitative results, high quality and a comprehensive menu of allergens and allergen components.
"Angsana is committed to deliver high-performance and affordable molecular diagnostic services to meet the health demand of Asian population. We are excited to work with Thermo Fisher and its technology to help us expand our service capabilities to better address this major public health concern," said Dr Chris Tan, CEO, Angsana.
"With the rising incidence of atopic* diseases, particularly among younger children, it is important to better understand the regional and ethnic differences in Asian countries," said Dr Richard Choy, Angsana's Chief Scientific Officer and MD, Angsana Hong Kong laboratory. "Through collaboration with local medical experts and healthcare providers, Angsana aims to provide a testing solution for Asia, in order to help improve the diagnosis efficiency and aid better allergy management."
"We're pleased that Angsana recognises our quality and expertise and we are pleased that our technology can be used to support their efforts," said Stefan Wolf, President, ImmunoDiagnostics, Thermo Fisher. "Providing tests for allergen sensitisation for the Asian population will help to enable healthcare professionals to have a better understanding of the symptoms of their patients."
Angsana has recently acquired Allergy Laboratory, a Singapore-based private laboratory with over 10-year experience serving in the allergy testing business. "The acquisition enables us to combine the existing tests and dedicated expertise from Allergy Laboratory with the range of premium molecular assays from Angsana, providing an expanded, high-quality diagnostic services under the CAP-accredited environment," said Dr Tan.
*Atopic diseases refer to situations where an allergy-causing substance touching one part of the body affect a completely different part of the body.
