Armen B Shanafelt

Title: **Armen B Shanafelt: A Pioneer in Immunochromatographic Analysis**

Introduction

Armen B Shanafelt, based in Redwood City, California, is a notable inventor with a significant contribution to the field of immunochromatographic analysis. With a total of seven patents to his name, he has demonstrated a commitment to advancing methodologies in assay techniques that enhance the accuracy and efficiency of analytical processes.

Latest Patents

Shanafelt's recent patents include innovative methods for conducting immunochromatographic assays. One of his prominent inventions describes a device designed for immunochromatographic analysis. This method involves combining a first bibulous member with a liquid medium that contains a specific component. The first zone of the bibulous member is non-diffusively bound to a reagent that interacts with the component. Conditions are carefully chosen to facilitate the migration of the liquid medium and component through the first zone into a second bibulous member zone. The second zone consists of a different composition and selectively binds components only in the presence of an analyte. Furthermore, the migration distance of the component is related to its concentration in the liquid medium, showcasing an efficient way to detect analytes.

In another patent, he has outlined a comprehensive method for conducting assays for analytes. This method comprises binding a specific member of a binding pair to a first bibulous member through an aqueous medium under conditions that enable capillary action. This first member is then placed in connection with a second bibulous member, leading to the absorption and binding of a reagent in a second aqueous medium. By leveraging capillary migration across the bibulous members, the presence of the reagent is subsequently determined, enhancing the assay's reliability and performance.

Career Highlights

Shanafelt has worked with reputable companies throughout his career, including Syntex (U.S.A.) Inc. and Behringwerke Aktiengesellschaft. His experience in these organizations has equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to innovate in the medical and analytical fields, particularly regarding immunological methods.

Collaborations

Throughout his journey as an inventor, Shanafelt has collaborated with fellow professionals, including Carl N Skold and Vartan E Ghazarossian. These partnerships have fostered a creative environment, enabling the exchange of ideas and spurring advancements in assay technologies.

Conclusion

Armen B Shanafelt's contributions to immunochromatographic analysis represent a significant advancement in the field of analytical techniques. His innovative patents and collaborative efforts illustrate his dedication to improving assays and enhancing their applicability in various research and clinical settings. As he continues to develop new methodologies, his work will likely inspire further innovations in the future.