Revolutionizing Diagnostics: DNAiTECH Secures $1 Million for Instant, Lab-Free Testing
Auckland-based biotechnology company DNAiTECH has taken a major step towards revolutionizing healthcare and agriculture with a NZD $1 million funding boost. Led by Sprout Agritech, this investment will fuel the development of groundbreaking instant diagnostic tests that eliminate the need for laboratory analysis.
Point-of-Care Diagnostics: A Game-Changer for Disease Management
The funding includes a NZD $750,000 repayable grant from Callaghan Innovation and will be dedicated to advancing DNAiTECH’s cutting-edge technology. This technology promises to identify both human and animal diseases, including Johne’s disease in cattle and measles in humans, directly at the point of care.
“Diseases like Johne’s in livestock or measles in humans drive significant losses, both economically and human life, especially in developing countries,” explains Murray Broom, Co-Founder of DNAiTECH. “The ability to deliver an instant, accurate diagnosis at the point of care changes the game. It’s the difference between taking the problem to the lab; or taking science to the problem.”
Rapid, Actionable Results for Improved Healthcare
This technology aims to deliver rapid and actionable information directly to clinicians and veterinarians, enabling faster and more effective treatment decisions, particularly in critical situations like bovine viral disease and corneal infections. “This investment will redefine how diagnostics are performed at the point of care, making a profound impact on sectors that are ripe for innovation,” says Warren Bebb, Chief Investment Officer for Sprout Agritech. “DNAiTECH’s integration of digital and diagnostic technologies presents a scalable solution for a historically challenging industry, offering a level of accessibility and affordability that has been unable to achieve before.”
Harnessing LAMP Technology for Accurate, On-the-Spot Results
DNAiTECH leverages Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), a highly accurate and efficient testing method, within a portable handheld device. This innovative approach combines biomedical diagnostic chips and smartphone integration, providing accurate and immediate results that previously required laboratory analysis.
“Our system is highly engineered yet portable and simple to use. Using a DNAiTECH device and innovative sample processing system, clinicians can get results in minutes compared to days for lab tests,” states Broom. He further emphasizes that the Gen3 device is being developed to meet the World Health Organisation’s ASSURED criteria for point-of-care diagnostics.
Real-World Impact: Diagnosing Measles and Rubella in Senegal
DNAiTECH is already making a real difference. The company is part of a project in Senegal, supported by Grand Challenges Canada, to rapidly diagnose measles and rubella. This initiative, slated to begin in 2025, will utilize DNAiTECH’s diagnostic chips to aid in outbreak containment and disease management.
Scaling Up for a Brighter Future
Looking ahead, DNAiTECH plans to commercialize its technology across both the agritech and biomedical sectors. Kevin Darling, appointed as Chief Commercial Officer, brings extensive sales and marketing experience to drive these efforts. The company is also actively expanding its team with experts in biochemistry, molecular biology, and engineering, while drawing on the expertise of distinguished scientific and strategic advisors.
“Making a substantial difference to the future of diagnostics is what drives us. We’re solving a problem that has long plagued both human and animal health. It’s not just about clever technology – it’s about creating something impactful that can change lives on a global scale,” concludes Broom.
**Stay tuned for more updates from DNAiTECH as they continue to revolutionize the world of diagnostics!**