ZyGEM to Commercialize DNA Detection and Testing Platform

ZyGEM Corp. Ltd. (Hamilton, New Zealand; and Solana Beach, CA, USA) has acquired MicroLab Diagnostics Inc., a private company developing microfluidic devices for rapid DNA testing. ZyGEM will market products integrating its DNA extraction, reagents, and detection assays with microfluidic chip technology developed by MicroLab, which will operate as a business unit of the new company.

MicroLab's miniaturization of the entire DNA testing process within a single closed system significantly reduces the amount of sample and reagents that are needed, while virtually eliminating the chances for handling error or contamination. The integrated new products will dramatically decrease the time, complexity, and cost of conducting DNA testing and have transformational potential in a broad range of applications.

The ZyGEM/MicroLab system is compact, easy-to-use, and cost-effective, making it suitable for use both in the laboratory and out in the field. It can perform multiplexed analyses, and it can also be configured for specific applications. Portable handheld versions are in development.

A prototype of the new system produced accurate DNA results in less than an hour, comparable to results obtained with current technology requiring three separate instruments and 5 to 10 hours. The new technology has the potential for applications where accuracy, speed, and ease-of-use are critical, including, point-of-care diagnostics, forensics, biodefense, and food pathogen testing.

ZyGEM intends to continue to expand sales of its proprietary assays and kits that use a thermophilic enzyme to extract DNA or RNA from a wide range of sample types using a single, closed-tube system.

Under the terms of the agreement, the new company will be called ZyGEM and will be headquartered in Charlottesville, Virginia (USA).

Dr. James Landers, cofounder of MicroLab Diagnostics and CSO of the new company, noted, "ZyGEM brings us DNA extraction and detection technology that is an ideal fit with our microchips, enabling us to achieve a seamless sample-to-answer solution with broad market applicability. It also brings us commercial expertise and a global network of distributors and partners.

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ZyGEM Corp. Ltd.
MicroLab Diagnostics Inc.