Directed Molecular Diagnostic Tests Highlight Recent Microbiology Conference

The performance of a series of directed molecular diagnostic tests was confirmed by several studies presented at a recent microbiology conference.

Nanosphere (Northbrook, IL, USA) manufactures tests designed to target infections of the bloodstream, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract. The Nanosphere Verigene System rapidly and accurately detects infectious pathogens and drug resistance markers by targeting conserved genetic regions of a bacterium or virus. These assays are based on nanoparticles that are typically 13–20 nanometers in diameter. Depending upon the application, each nanoparticle is functionalized with either a defined number of DNA or RNA oligonucleotides or a defined number of antibodies that are specific to a particular protein of interest.


Tests are conducted in the Verigene Processor SP, which is a modular, easy-to-use benchtop analyzer that combines automated nucleic acid extraction, purification, amplification, and hybridization in each module. These advanced capabilities allow users to run Verigene Tests on-demand in response to testing needs, without the need for batch processing, specially trained personnel, or specialized facilities. The associated Verigene Reader manages sample information, reads results from processed cartridges, and enables printing of results, internal data storage, and LIS (laboratory information system) connectivity without the need for an external PC. The Verigene System is scalable, allowing throughput customization to meet the size and testing demands of each laboratory.

Seven studies evaluating the performance and clinical impact of select Verigene multiplex infectious disease tests were presented at the 115th General Meeting of the American Society for Microbiology held in 2015 in New Orleans, LA, USA. Three of the studies highlighted the superior performance and broad antibiotic resistance coverage of the Verigene Gram-Negative Blood Culture Test (BC-GN). Four other studies highlighted the accuracy and utility of the Verigene Gram-Positive Blood Culture Test (BC-GP), the Verigene Enteric Pathogens Test (EP), and the research-use only Verigene Respiratory Pathogens Flex Test (RP Flex).

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