Probes are highly sensitive, sequence-specific, bi-functional molecules containing a PCR primer covalently linked to a probe
DxS has agreed to license its Scorpions technology to Cepheid for use in all worldwide markets excluding clinical diagnostics, wine production, and detection of chemicals used in agriculture.
DxS is a private UK based company focused on personalised medicine.
"The Scorpions technology provides Cepheid with a unique combination of performance and commercial benefits, which we expect to apply to industrial markets such as food, agriculture and environmental testing where we are receiving growing market demand.
"The first commercial products expected to use the Scorpions probes for Cepheid will be in the recreational water testing area.
"We expect the technology to be applicable to both our SmartCycler and GeneXpert systems," stated John Bishop, Cepheid's chief executive officer.
Scorpions probes are highly sensitive, sequence-specific, bi-functional molecules containing a PCR primer covalently linked to a probe.
Scorpions probes provide strong fluorescent signals, excellent sequence discrimination, short reaction times, and predictable probe design.
The interaction of the probe and the desired target occurs very rapidly and in advance of any competing side reactions such as the formation of internal secondary structures or re-annealing.
The unique intra-molecular nature of the Scorpions reaction means that it is ideally suited for fast, quantitative, real-time PCR analysis, says DxS.
Commenting on the agreement, Stephen Little, chief executive officer for DxS, said: "We are delighted to have signed a Scorpions licencing agreement with Cepheid, one of the recognised leaders in rapid genetic testing, as it reflects growing interest and increasing industry confidence in one of our core technologies.
"DxS is currently in discussion with a number of companies that see an opportunity to launch products in the emerging molecular diagnostics market.
"Licencing Scorpions gives these companies the freedom to move into new areas and develop innovative tests".
DxS is an established genotyping services company providing pharmaceutical, biotechnology and clinical research companies with rapid and reliable pharmacogenetic analysis to support drug discovery, clinical development and personalised medicine.
DxS operates from purpose built laboratories equipped with fully automated sample handling and genotyping systems in Manchester, UK.
The company has implemented laboratory management systems and quality control practices.
Cepheid is a developer, manufacturer and marketer of fully integrated systems that enable genetic assessment when and where it is needed.
Founded in 1996, the company is commercialising its technology and products worldwide for research, medical, and industrial applications requiring assessment of the human genome, infectious disease and biothreat agents.
