Developing combo kits (multiplex tests) — how to choose panels?
When I was helping set up diagnostics in a small regional lab, we debated whether to invest in single-target tests or go for multiplex panels. The idea of screening for multiple pathogens in one go sounded amazing, but I worried that adding too many targets could affect sensitivity. Has anyone here actually chosen a multiplex panel for their lab, and how did you decide which markers to include without overcomplicating things?
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That’s a good point — multiplexing can be powerful, but it’s easy to overload panels with markers that aren’t really relevant for your patient group. In our lab, we first looked at the most common infections in the area, then built panels around those instead of buying “all-in-one” solutions. It saved us time and money. I found https://gentaur.co.uk/ really helpful for comparing available kits, since they list panels with different combinations so you can match them to your needs. From my experience, smaller tailored panels work better than going super broad right away.