Ultra-Fast Real-Time PCR Platform Could Revolutionize POC Molecular Diagnostics

An ultra-fast point-of-care real-time PCR platform for infectious disease diagnostics that is currently under development will be able to deliver results within five minutes at a cost equivalent to antigen tests currently available in the market.

Using proprietary technologies, LEX Diagnostics (Melbourn, UK) is developing a platform that could revolutionize point-of-care molecular diagnostics with a step change in speed, sensitivity and cost. The LEX System being developed by LEX Diagnostics aims to deliver true-PCR insights to clinicians at the time they are most valuable, meaning an answer in 5-7 minutes. Amplifying the genetic material over tens of thermal cycles is the bottleneck for conventional PCR systems. LEX’s amplification chambers can be heated or cooled in seconds. The company’s IP enables ultrafast thermocycling without the need for an expensive, unreliable Peltier cooler. This enables a compact, robust reader with a low cost of goods.

Image: The LEX System aims to deliver true-PCR insights to clinicians at the time they are most valuable (Photo courtesy of LEX)

RT-PCR is the gold standard for the diagnosis of viral infectious disease. LEX has shown that its platform amplifies viruses with lab-standard sensitivity and selectivity. LEX’s IP protects a cartridge design that can be made from industry standard materials developed by experienced engineers to be within standard process tolerances. The LEX System is compact enough to fit on the bench of the smallest physician’s office lab and simple enough to be used by the newest nurse or the oldest doctor in the practice. It will deliver results quickly enough to support the busiest urgent care yet is affordable enough for the smallest rural pharmacy.

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