Automation in arthrosis research.

Journal: SLAS technology
Published Date:

Abstract

Widespread medical studies require the analysis of suitable sample numbers to discover certain effects. Arthrosis treatment with hip and knee joint endoprostheses introduces multiple materials into the human body. Metal-containing implants may release several degradation products. Certain concentrations of chromium, cobalt, nickel, titanium and aluminum may affect multiple organs. The determination of metal concentrations in body fluids is one way to prevent severe intoxication from implants. In addition, the study of metal distribution and accumulation in individual organs will deliver extended information. In contrast to well automated high-throughput screenings, analytical measurements are mostly performed manually due to their complex process structure. A new study published in the journal Molecules presents a semi-automated sample preparation and measurement system for the determination of metals in autopsy tissue using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). In this auto-commentary, the main findings are highlighted and discussed.

Authors

  • Heidi Fleischer
    1 Institute of Automation, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany.
  • Thomas Roddelkopf
    2 Center for Life Science Automation (celisca), University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany.
  • Christoph Lutter
    Department of Orthopedics, University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany.
  • Andreas Büttner
    Institute of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center, 18055 Rostock, Germany.
  • Wolfram Mittelmeier
    Department of Orthopedics, University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany.
  • Kerstin Thurow
    2 Center for Life Science Automation (celisca), University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany.