Sample preparation for the Genedrive® mTB test is done by the user prior to placing the sample into the genedrive cartridge for testing. This funding will support the development of a more streamlined workflow which concentrates the patient sample prior to testing, with the goal of increasing sensitivity of the assay and reducing manufacturing costs. The programme is anticipated to run for a one year period, after which the sample preparation solution will require formal performance and clinical validation.
David Budd, Chief Executive Officer of genedrive plc, said “We are very appreciative of Innovate UK’s support and recognition of our commitment to TB diagnostics. The market dynamics of molecular tuberculosis testing have not changed significantly since we first began developing the Genedrive® mTB/RIF assay. We believe Genedrive® can play an important role in supporting the management of TB, by meeting key assay performance criteria at a price point that does not require the subsidies that exist in market today. The Innovate UK funding is important in further developing the Genedrive® mTB/RIF to meet the varied needs of the broad global markets to which we now have commercial channels.”
The Genedrive® mTB/RIF test is designed as a decentralised, point-of-need test to diagnose the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in patient sputum samples. It will provide clinicians with important patient information on drug susceptibility prior to initiating treatment. The test is performed using a disposable proprietary assay cartridge on the Company’s portable molecular diagnostics platform, Genedrive®.
The person responsible for the release of this announcement on behalf of the Company is Matthew Fowler, Chief Financial Officer.
