The Atlas io™ system is set to revolutionise the diagnosis of infectious diseases by bringing down the time required to take a patient sample and make a diagnosis to less than 30 minutes. This compares with the typical three to 10- day turnaround traditionally required to achieve the same diagnosis through a central lab.
The Atlas io™ Reader operates with a test-specific disposable reagent cartridge and fully automates a three-stage process of DNA extraction and purification, DNA amplification, and electrochemical detection of the target infection. The operator simply adds the patient's sample to the cartridge, inserts it into the Reader, and follows on-screen prompts to make the diagnosis.
Achieving this level of simplicity for users has involved an intensive period of engineering design and development at TTP, operated and documented in accordance with FDA and ISO13485 requirements. The Reader features ultra-rapid sample thermocycling and an innovative combination of motors and pneumatic actuators to move and combine the sample with the required DNA extraction solutions, washing agents and enzymes in a precisely controlled and timed process.
The Atlas io™ Reader is now entering pilot manufacture and will be launched in 2014. Commenting on the project, TTP’s project leader Piers Harding said “the outstanding results that we are seeing from initial production instruments are testament to the close working relationship that Atlas Genetics and TTP have formed over the past year”
John Clarkson, Atlas Genetics CEO, commented “Our focus is on diseases including sexually transmitted, and hospital acquired infections, where rapid diagnosis is essential for effective treatment and control. The Atlas io™ Reader is an accurate, low cost, diagnostic instrument that has the potential to revolutionise infectious disease diagnosis.”
About TTP (www.ttp.com)
The Technology Partnership plc (TTP) is Europe's leading technology and product development company. TTP works closely with its clients to create disruptive products based on advances in technology and engineering innovation. TTP’s technology lies behind many products and processes in areas as diverse as communications, digital printing, instrumentation, consumer & industrial products, biotechnology, medical devices, cleantech and security systems.
About Atlas (www.atlasgenetics.com). Atlas (Atlas Genetics Ltd) develops ultra-rapid point-of-care (POC) diagnostic tests for infectious diseases. The Atlas io™ system uses patented technology based on the use of a novel electrochemical sensor that combines speed, accuracy and multiplex detection capability. The Company has its head office and laboratory facilities near Bath. Atlas was established in 2005 and is financed by VC, corporate and private investors including Consort Medical plc, Novartis Venture Funds, J&J Development Corporation, Life Science Partners (LSP), BB Biotech Ventures and YFM Equity Partners. The company raised £16.9 million in series B finance in 2011.
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For more information contact:
TTP: Piers Harding (piers.harding@ttp.com)
Rob Day (rob.day@ttp.com)
Tel: +44 1763 262626
Atlas: John Clarkson
Tel: +44 (0) 1225 717930
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