ABEL Microsampler

Despite recent technological progress during the pandemic, nasal fluid still cannot be reliably used to study complex biomarkers like proteins and exosomes. The limitation lies not in the analysis, but in how the samples are collected. Traditional nasal sampling methods are uncomfortable, yield inconsistent volumes, are not site specific and require specialised handling. These limitations compromise the integrity of the biological material, rendering advanced biomarker platforms ineffective. The design challenge was clear: create a simple, patient-friendly solution capable of delivering high-fidelity, site-specific nasal fluid samples, without reliance on specialist equipment, bridging the gap between sample collection and modern diagnostic potential.

The ABEL Microsampler captures high-quality nasal liquid biopsies with an innovative, absorbent expanding probe that gently conforms to targeted sites in the upper airway. Extensive user research and iterative prototyping refined its design for ease of use, predictable expansion, and patient comfort without the need for specialist training or endoscopes. The result is a world-first, patent pending device that can be deployed in diverse settings to enable consistent, site-specific sample collection at scale. The ABEL Microsampler redefines respiratory sampling, eliminating a critical barrier to precision care by enabling richer biomarker discovery, faster clinical insights, and more effective, individualised treatments.

The ABEL Microsampler marks a leap in sampling technology, enabling clinicians to tailor treatments with rich nasal biomarker data that was previously inaccessible. With chronic respiratory disorders affecting 1 in 3 Australians and healthcare costs exceeding $4.54 billion annually, improving sample quality offers a critical commercial opportunity for earlier diagnosis and personalised care. ABEL’s intuitive design empowers a broader range of healthcare providers, not just specialists, to deliver high-quality diagnostics, expanding access and improving health equity across rural and underserved communities. Its low-waste construction further reduces the environmental burden of repeated testing, helping build a sustainable future for respiratory diagnostics.

Expanding Probe Tip: A soft, biocompatible probe gently expands to a targeted site within the nasal cavity, ensuring more consistent sample volume and maximising contact with the mucosal surface without causing patient trauma. This site-specific collection approach improves sample integrity for advanced respiratory diagnostics. High-Integrity Absorptive Matrix: A scientifically validated absorptive matrix captures nasal fluid while preserving delicate biomarkers. In material trials, the selected matrix demonstrated excellent analyte preservation and recovery, ensuring samples remain viable for advanced biomarker analysis after collection. Ergonomic Handle and Intuitive Operation: The slim, ergonomic handle features an intuitive, single-motion actuation mechanism, allowing non-specialist users to confidently collect high-quality samples without endoscopy equipment. Designed for diverse environments, it supports easy adoption across clinical, research, and remote settings. Validated User-Centric Design: Feedback from over 30 professionals, including ENT specialists, respiratory clinicians, and nurses, guided refinements at every development stage. Both form and function were optimised to meet real-world clinical needs, including probe expansion, site targeting, and user ergonomics Quality and Safety: Constructed with durable, medical-grade materials, the ABEL Microsampler includes critical safety features such as an insertion depth stop to prevent skull base injuries. The device meets international medical safety standards and is FDA and ARTG registered.