Alliance to Develop New PCR Assays

An exclusive agreement to co-develop a new range of microbiology tests has been announced by Roche Diagnostics (Mannheim, Germany) and the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (Rochester, MN, USA). The new tests will be based on Roche's LightCycler real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology.

The planned PCR assays will gradually replace traditional culture methods of detection and quantification of micro-organisms and antibiotic resistance testing. The first tests to be developed are for the analysis of respiratory tract infections, Herpes viruses, and important resistance genes. The companies say these assays will provide much faster results, which will lead to a more-targeted use of antibiotics, resulting in improved patient treatment and medical outcomes. The agreement combines Roche's strength in PCR technology with the Mayo Clinic's experience in the field of molecular microbiology and clinical validation of diagnostic products. Under the terms of their agreement, the Mayo Foundation will develop the assays and Roche will handle manufacturing, distribution, and support.

"For Roche, this partnership offers a significant opportunity to develop new parameters for molecular diagnostics both rapidly and efficiently,” says Juergen Flach, M.D., vice president and general manager of molecular biochemicals, Roche Diagnostics.





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