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1st August 2016  Content supplied by: Spartan Bioscience Inc.

First Applications for World's Smallest DNA-Testing Device


Spartan Bioscience have launched the world’s smallest commercial molecular diagnostic device, the Spartan Cube, and announced its first applications. About the size of a coffee cup, or four inches cubed, the Cube enables unprecedented portability and convenience, enabling new application in fields such as infectious disease, pharmacogenetics, and food and water safety testing.

The Spartan Cube is a PCR-based platform that fully integrates DNA collection, extraction, and analysis, with an intuitive interface that is easy to operate. In addition, the Cube goes from sample to result in 30 minutes, a fraction of the time compared to lab-based testing.

Spartan today announced three assays: Strep A, Apolipoprotein E (APOE), and Legionella.

Strep A:  The Cube enables rapid and accurate PCR-based Strep testing that is portable enough for a doctor’s office or walk-in clinic. Spartan plans to submit a CLIA waiver application to the FDA for this test.

Apolipoprotein E (APOE):  One-in-four people carry APOE genetic mutations that increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. These genetic carriers can be ideal candidates to enroll in clinical trials or research studies. The Cube is the fastest way to identify these potential patients based on their genetics. For example, patients can be tested for clinical trials in doctors’ offices, walk-in clinics, or even nursing homes.

Legionella:  The Cube is the first portable DNA-based Legionella testing device that is suitable for professional use in facilities management. For the first time, building managers can bring rapid and accurate Legionella testing on-site.

Paul Lem, M.D., CEO of Spartan Bioscience, says the Spartan Cube is bringing the power of rapid DNA testing to everyone.

“Just like mainframe computers gave way to smartphones, DNA-testing systems in central labs will give way to portable, on-demand DNA analyzers,” says Dr. Lem. “And in the same way a smartphone allows you to run multiple apps at your fingertips, the Cube enables all kinds of molecular diagnostic tests whenever and wherever you want.”

Spartan Bioscience is showcasing the Spartan Cube at the American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC) Expo from Aug. 1-4, 2016 in Philadelphia, P.A.

Dr. Paul Lem will also give a presentation on the Cube's technology, initial assay menu, and provide a live workflow demonstration at 6 p.m. on Aug. 2, 2016 at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, 1201 Market Street, Grand Ballroom - Salon L.

 


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Date Published: 1st August 2016

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