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The reference laboratory in France for biochemical exploration of stools and exploration of intestinal homeostasis was looking for a faster analysis method that would limit the need for solvents and sample preparation. Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR spectroscopy) and the NIRS DS2500 Solid Analyzer from Metrohm proved to be a viable solution.

NIR spectroscopy to the rescue

The functional coprology lab of the university is in charge of analyzing lipids, nitrogen, carbohydrates, energy, bacterial metabolites, electrolytes, calprotectin, and elastase in stool samples. Reference methods are mostly manual and time-consuming. These methods require a long extraction process which leads to performing serial assays. The lab was looking for a faster analytical method that allows the results to be rendered on an ad hoc basis. They also wanted to limit the use of solvents and to facilitate sample preparation. They turned to NIR spectroscopy because of the following advantages:

  • Fast and hygienic measurements
  • No solvents and sample preparation needed
  • Automation options
  • Multiparameter analysis (lipids, nitrogen, and hydration can be analyzed at the same time in one measurement)

In the beginning, they faced some challenges with other NIRS analyzers not from Metrohm, as the results were not satisfactory. After close collaboration between Metrohm and the laboratory team, the methods for even the difficult samples (e.g., very liquid or greasy samples) could be validated and a reliable NIRS analyzer was in place.

Fast, robust, and user-friendly NIR analyzer

DS2500 Solid Analyzer, Open Lid

The NIRS DS2500 Solid Analyzer from Metrohm is used in two areas:

  1. A routine sector that groups the main biological analyses performed for exploration of diarrhea (nutrients, electrolytes, and metabolites measurements)
  2. A specialized sector dedicated to nutritional assessments and follow-up of patients who have undergone digestive surgery such as extensive intestinal resection leading to malabsorption and wasting conditions leading to intestinal failure, by-pass, or intestinal transplantation

According to the laboratory, the advantages of the NIRS DS2500 Solid Analyzer can be summarized as follows:

  • Time-saving with regards to sample preparation, measurement, and analyzer maintenance
  • Reduced turnaround time for results
  • User-friendly software, also for people without laboratory experience
  • Non-destructive analysis

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