Core Technology
Migibio’s diagnostic platforms are built on Fluorescence Immunochromatographic Technology (FICT), a quantitative immunoassay technique that combines the specificity of antigen-antibody reactions with the sensitivity of fluorescence detection. This page explains how the technology works, why it outperforms conventional rapid tests, and where it is applied.
How FICT Works
Fluorescence immunochromatography is a lateral-flow immunoassay in which the detection signal is generated by fluorescent microspheres rather than colloidal gold. The workflow proceeds as follows:
- Sample application — serum, plasma, whole blood, or a swab specimen is applied to the sample well.
- Immuno-binding — fluorescent microspheres labelled with analyte-specific antibodies bind to their target in the specimen.
- Capillary migration — the labelled complex flows along a nitrocellulose membrane and is captured at the test (T) and control (C) lines.
- Quantification — the analyzer excites the captured fluorophores and converts the emitted fluorescence intensity into an objective concentration value.
Because fluorescence intensity is directly proportional to analyte concentration, FICT produces a quantitative result — a numerical concentration — rather than a simple positive/negative readout.
FICT vs. Conventional Rapid Tests
| Dimension | Conventional (Colloidal Gold) | FICT (Fluorescence) |
|---|---|---|
| Result type | Qualitative (line/no line) | Quantitative (concentration) |
| Sensitivity | Lower — limited dynamic range | High — LOD down to pg/ml |
| Precision | Visual, subjective reading | Instrument-read, CV% < 10% |
| Interpretation | Operator-dependent | Objective, reproducible |
| Throughput | Manual, single-read | Automated, up to 200–300 tests/hour |
| Data | No record-keeping | Digital records, cloud curves, reports |
Key Advantages
| Attribute | FICT Advantage |
|---|---|
| Operation | Three steps only |
| Speed | Results in 3–15 minutes |
| Sensitivity | LOD to pg/ml |
| Precision | CV% < 10% |
| Throughput | Up to 200–300 tests/hour |
| Output | Quantitative + qualitative |
Applications
FICT underpins a broad range of Migibio diagnostic solutions:
- Veterinary diagnostics — infectious disease antigens and antibodies, hormones, inflammatory markers, and kidney biomarkers (e.g., SDMA) for dogs and cats
- Food safety — veterinary drug residue and mycotoxin screening
- Environmental monitoring — heavy metal ion detection
The Science Behind the Systems
For a deeper technical exploration, see our technology articles covering fluorescence immunochromatography principles, analyzer selection, and clinical applications.