Molecular diagnostic company launches next gen PCR technology, with focus on respiratory targets

Diagnostics & MedTech News: An advancement in PCR technology is improving the target output by twofold. Sydney-based SpeeDx’s technology achieves this without the need for specialised equipment, seamlessly integrating with standard qPCR instrumentation in laboratories.

PCR stands as the gold standard for detecting infections, including respiratory illnesses. Yet, existing laboratory solutions often prove costly, sometimes encompassing unnecessary targets, and struggle to cope with high testing volumes. Applying an innovative approach to standard PCR, SpeeDx has developed PlexPlus, a highly multiplexed, scalable technology that is affordable. 

“I love creating new tech and pushing PCR boundaries.” stated A/Professor Alison Todd, co-founder and Chief Technical Officer of SpeeDx. “Our assays powered with PlexPlus can provide two results per channel, and labs will see immediate benefits in doubling their qPCR system’s usual output. We see endless possibilities for PlexPlus application.”

RespiV PlexPlus, the first product to harness this next generation multiplexing technology, simultaneously detects 14 respiratory viral targets in a single well, namely influenza A virus, influenza B virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, respiratory syncytial viruses A and B, adenoviruses B and C, human parainfluenza viruses 1, 2, 3 and 4, human metapneumovirus, rhinovirus and human enterovirus.

“The RespiV PlexPlus assay clearly discriminates between rhinovirus and enterovirus,” stated Yin Xu, Research Manager, SpeeDx, “which will please laboratories that have been requesting this for some time.”

The data gathered within each channel, whether at low or high temperature, remains distinct, devoid of any cross talk. This distinction streamlines result analysis for laboratories, eliminating the necessity for algorithms to discern contributions from various targets measured at the same wavelength.

“The launch of RespiV PlexPlus is an exciting development! The ability to identify many targets in a single well can really improve workflow efficiency. This, along with compatibility with a wide range of qPCR systems commonly found in laboratories means that the labs can’t wait to get their hands on it,” says Colin Denver, CEO of SpeeDx.