New Technology Applied for Molecular Testing Outside of Central Laboratories

A collaborative program has been initiated to develop assays utilizing the new Discipher system for bringing DNA-based testing and diagnostics to point-of-care settings.

Discipher is a low cost, walk-away system, based on DVD technology. It uses self-contained, disposable assay devices in the form of DVD discs with microfluidic channels. The system was jointly developed by UK-based scientific engineering company Plarion Ltd. (Hertfordshire, UK) and the Scandinavian diagnostics technology development company LingVitae Corporation (Oslo, Norway). This work was supported by funding from the Seventh Research Framework Program of the European Union, under the Digital Sequencing project.

The new research and development collaboration will bring in the Sweden-based technical university KTH Royal Institute of Technology (KTH; Stockholm, Sweden). As part of this engagement, LingVitae/Plarion will transfer prototype versions of the Discipher instrument to the researchers at KTH, as well as support the development work by customizing the optical disc-based disposable assay devices.

“Our aim with Discipher is to democratize molecular and cellular analysis, putting low-cost easy-to-use tools in the hands of the wider community, outside of core laboratories”, said Dr. Jackie Cole, Head of Marketing for Plarion. “We see that the Discipher system addresses an unmet need in bringing DNA-based diagnostics and testing to users who have previously not had access to this technology,” says Prof. Lundeberg, based at the Science for Life Laboratory in Stockholm.

Dr. Preben Lexow, Chief Executive Officer of LingVitae, added, “We look forward to the collaboration with Professor Lundeberg’s group [at KTH]. The track-record of KTH on development of DNA-based assays, utilizing a repertoire of molecular techniques, provides an exciting opportunity for us to expand our activities in the DNA assay space.”

The innovative Discipher system - with its integrated temperature control, centrifuge, and high-resolution readout - is well suited for point-of-care assays requiring minimal end user operation, rapid turnaround times, and ability to multiplex tests. Assay developers, especially in the areas of immune and cellular assays, are encouraged to contact LingVitae to discuss collaborations or assay transfers to the Discipher system.

Related Links:
KTH Royal Institute of Technology
LingVitae Corporation
Plarion Ltd.