Now Offering Hyaluronan Analysis Services
We offer a range of hyaluronan analyses, performed in our lab by highly skilled personnel.
A breakthrough in glycan analysis
Hyaluronan (or hyaluronic acid, HA) is the most abundant glycan found in the human body with major roles in processes that include tissue hydration, innate immunity, joint lubrication, and more. Both the amount and size of HA molecules are critical to understanding its activity as well as its value as a disease biomarker, but conventional analysis technologies are limited by dynamic range and the requirement for large sample sizes that are difficult or impossible to obtain in most cases. Foenestra has developed new technology that enables a comprehensive analysis of HA from minute samples.
A major step for epigenetics research and diagnostics
Diverse epigenetic modifications to DNA are linked to a wide range of human diseases and disorders, including cancers, autoimmune disorders, psychological disorders, and injuries from radiation and chemical exposure. Scientists’ ability to study these modifications and their impact on human health has been impeded by a lack of a consistent, standardized technique capable of assessing them. Foenestra’s technology opens a new frontier of innovation in epigenetics research and diagnostics.
A major step for epigenetics research and diagnostics
A new way to identify pathogens at the point of need
Point-of-need tests can deliver fast results at a lower cost than lab-based tests, but lack the accuracy and precision of their lab-based counterparts. Now Foenestra has developed a technology that brings the robustness of lab-based tests to the field. Our portable, low-cost “lab on a chip” technology identifies and quantifies any targeted DNA or RNA of interest – from antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in the emergency room, to parasites in our drinking water.
Technology Solutions to Diagnostic Needs
Foenestra employs a suite of proprietary technologies to deliver analytical results that can’t be attained in other ways.
Glycan Analysis
Our solid-state nanopore technology allows a full molecular weight distribution to be determined from as little as 10 nanograms of hyaluronan derived from a broad range of sources.
Epigenetic Labeling
We are able to identify seven distinct epigenetic modifications, labeling them with markers that enable their detection with conventional sequencing, microarray, and PCR technologies.
Nucleic Acid Detection
Our unique assay identifies and quantifies with high precision the presence of nucleic acids featuring target modifications and motifs, including conserved pathogen sequences and microRNAs.
Applications
We are developing products that will enable researchers to study epigenetic modifications that can’t be accessed with current technologies.
Our products also improve the accuracy and reduce the cost of epigenetic research being conducted today.
Hyaluronan Analysis
We presently offer a range of hyaluronan analysis options to fit your experimental needs. We provide detailed analytical results and support hyaluronan extraction from a variety of sources.
Sample Prep Kits
We are developing sample prep kits which will allow researchers to label epigenetic modifications for analysis with sequencers, microarrays, and PCR.
Automation
We are also developing a microfluidics-based system that fully automates the sample prep and analysis in a consumable “lab on a chip” cartridge.
Selected Publications
Ovarian stiffness increases with age in the mammalian ovary and depends on collagen and hyaluronan matrices
Self-regenerating giant hyaluronan polymer brushes
Selective detection and quantification of modified DNA with solid-state nanopores
Sequence-specific recognition of microRNAs and other short nucleic acids with solid-state nanopores
Contact Us Today
to discover how we can improve your HA analysis results while saving time, personnel, and infrastructure costs.
Our Location
We are based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the home of Wake Forest University School of Medicine.
Suite 400
Winston-Salem, NC 27101