Quidel Licenses Molecular Antiviral Resistance and Influenza Detection Technology

Quidel Corp. (San Diego, CA, USA) announced exclusive, worldwide licenses to the antiviral resistance microarray-based influenza detection (AVR-Chip) and the microarray-based influenza B detection technology (BChip).

Both technologies were developed by scientists at the University of Colorado at Boulder (CU-Boulder; Boulder, CO, USA) in collaboration with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC; Atlanta, GA, USA).

The AVR-Chip is useful in identifying mutations that may confer resistance to antiviral reagents and facilitate proper influenza treatment decisions. The ability to identify antiviral susceptibility is important for global monitoring of influenza patterns, and for directing physicians toward better treatment decisions.

The BChip can detect influenza B virus strains, for example, B/Victoria/2/87 and B/Yamagata/16/88. In a recent study of 62 influenza B virus samples from 19 countries, dating from 1945 to 2005, as well as five negative control samples, the BChip exhibited 97% sensitivity and 100% specificity, with no false-positives. This information is critical for preparing seasonal influenza vaccines.

Caren Mason, president and CEO of Quidel commented, Exclusive access to molecular-based technologies for influenza B diagnostics, and for detection of antiviral resistance, greatly complements our ongoing progress with our MChip technology for influenza A. These licenses also reinforce our commitment to market leadership in rapid point-of-care influenza diagnostics.

Quidel's portfolio currently includes tests that aid in the diagnosis of several diseases or conditions, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, fecal occult blood, Streptococcus A, Helicobacter pylori, Chlamydia, pregnancy, and bacterial vaginosis.


Related Links:
Quidel
University of Colorado at Boulder
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention