LG Motion Ltd provides enabling motion technology for gene research equipment application
LG Motion Limited has worked closely with a leading gene research equipment specialist to develop a novel mechanical process that uses magnetic oscillation to introduce biomaterials, such as DNA or RNA, into a cells for therapeutic or research purposes.
As part of gene research, an essential process known as transfection is used to introduce biomaterials, such as DNA or RNA, into a cell allowing scientists to investigate these biomaterials for therapeutic or research purposes with widespread benefits that help to unravel the complexities of genetic diseases and disorders.
Traditional transfection methods include both chemical and physical techniques which can have disadvantages such as low transfection efficiency and poor cell viability. Magnet assisted transfection, however, offers many advantages. At the forefront of this technology, UK based nanoTherics Limited, have pioneered this non-invasive process using magnet arrays that oscillate beneath the cells to be transfected, with proven speed and efficiency benefits.
Motion technology specialists LG Motion Limited has worked closely with nanoTherics since 2007 helping nanoTherics to develop the enabling oscillation stage of its technology for its magnefect-nano™ and magnefect-LT transfection devices using a technology process, patented by nanoTherics, that applies the proprietary oscillating magnet arrays in combination with specially prepared magnetic nanoparticles.
Initially LG Motion supplied standard motorised positioning stage and motion controls to nanoTherics for research studies to evaluate and develop its oscillation principle. The design of the oscillating magnet array was progressively optimised for both price and performance to ensure that nanoTherics stringent requirements for operational life and high reliability could be guaranteed with competitive cost for the portable, bench top devices which has culminated in the commercialisation of the magnefect-nano and the recent launch of the magnefect-LT.
The precise oscillation profile is now delivered using a small microstepping motor and leadscrew system with a carriage plate supported in a linear bearing, much the same as a traditional linear positioning stage but with strategically modified mechanics. The combined development project also allowed LG Motion to include the design and manufacture of the base frame and other mechanical hardware components.
