NeuMoDx Molecular Systems, Ann Arbor, Mich, and XCR Diagnostics, Salt Lake City, have announced a partnership to develop and implement three XCR assays for use on the NeuMoDx 96 and 288 molecular systems.
The fully automated NeuMoDx molecular systems integrate the entire diagnostic process, from extraction through detection, in approximately 1 hour to first result. The analyzers offer continuous random access to load up to 288 patient samples for high-throughput sample processing, with a true operator walkaway window of up to 7 hours.
XCR Diagnostics has demonstrated the ability to improve amplification and detection turnaround times by as much at 80% in traditional molecular diagnostic systems. In the case of NeuMoDx molecular systems, first results are available in as little as 40 minutes. Additionally, XCR chemistry reduces traditional amplification anomalies such as primer dimers and nonspecific binding.
The first assay available as a result of the partnership will be a multiplex panel for the detection of group A Streptococcus and group C/G Streptococcus.The assay will employ NeuMoDx’s proprietary NeuDry reagents, which require no refrigeration, offer an in-use stability of greater than 28 days, and have an ambient temperature storage life of more than a year.
Additionally, the unitized format of NeuDry reagents significantly increases operating efficiency while minimizing the waste associated with systems requiring manual reconstitution or use of bulk-format lyophilized reagents.
“We are excited to form this partnership with XCR Diagnostics,” says Jeff Williams, chairman and CEO of NeuMoDx Molecular. “While NeuMoDx molecular systems already offer market-leading speed and ease of use, by significantly reducing turnaround times the systems will be faster than most point-of-care instruments—but with the sensitivity and efficiency of a state-of-the-art central lab system. We anticipate launching the strep assay in CE markets later this summer.”
“While XCR Diagnostics remains focused on completing our first near-patient instrument system, this collaboration with NeuMoDx is one more milestone in our corporate development,” says Mark Powelson, CEO of XCR Diagnostics. “Placing XCR chemistry on a high-throughput molecular diagnostic system is another first for us,and really brings to light the value and impact of our rapid amplification detection chemistry and its use in a high-throughput laboratory instrument.”
“Our partnership with NeuMoDx—two startup companies—reallyhighlights a new trend in the molecular diagnostics business,” Powelson adds. “We look forward to expanding our relationship over time to allow both companies to take advantage of each other’s strengths.”
For further information, visit XCR Diagnostics and NeuMoDx Molecular.
