Beckman Coulter introduces ground-breaking next-gen basophil activation test for allergy research
Beckman Coulter Life Sciences has launched a ground-breaking Next-Generation Basophil Activation Test (BAT) that could transform food allergy research by eliminating the need for potentially dangerous allergen exposure.
New technology addresses longstanding safety concerns
The new research-use-only test offers a safer alternative to traditional Oral Food Challenge (OFC) testing methods, which currently require patients to consume increasing amounts of potential allergens to determine reactions. With approximately 220 million people globally suffering from at least one food allergy, this development addresses significant safety and ethical concerns.
“This offers a groundbreaking alternative in allergy testing, removing patient obstacles and reducing ethical concerns associated with direct allergen exposure in vulnerable participants,” said Jean-Marc Busnel, PhD, Principal Investigator and Senior Staff Research Scientist. “For too long these concerns have limited critical advancements, putting people at risk of not having access to life-saving treatment options should an allergic reaction occur. By removing these barriers, this test unlocks an opportunity to finally expand food allergy drug development and research.”
Streamlined methodology overcomes traditional limitations
The Next-Generation BAT represents a significant improvement over traditional basophil activation tests, which have existed for more than 30 years but have seen limited adoption due to complexity and reproducibility challenges.
The new test leverages dry technology to standardise testing procedures. The system features conjugated antibodies and allergens pre-mixed and dried in a single tube, requiring only four pipetting steps. It eliminates the need for compensation or centrifugation whilst remaining compatible with any flow cytometer.
This innovation follows Beckman Coulter Life Sciences’ receipt of the $1 million FARE (Food Allergy Research and Education) Innovation Award in 2022, which was established to foster improved testing methods in food allergy research.
Potential to accelerate research and development
FARE CEO Sung Poblete, PhD, RN, highlighted the significance of this development: “At FARE, we have prioritised supporting the development of safer alternatives to oral food challenges that can expose patients to risk and induce anxiety. The introduction of this next-generation Basophil Activation Test marks a significant advancement, moving diagnostic innovation from the bench toward future clinical application, paving the way for safer, more accessible food allergy research while offering the opportunity to stimulate progress and we are excited about the promise it holds for research and development.”
Customisable research platform
The test offers customisable dried allergens, antibodies, and concentrations through Beckman Coulter Life Sciences’ Custom Design Service, providing researchers with enhanced flexibility for specific research requirements.
Importantly, the company emphasises that the Next-Generation BAT is currently designated “For Research Use Only” and is not approved for diagnostic procedures.
- For more information, visit: https://www.beckman.com/reagents/coulter-flow-cytometry/custom-services/custom-design-services/bat
