Smiths Detection collaborates with University of Texas Health Science Center on NIH-funded project

London, 21 December 2009 - Smiths Detection today announces its collaboration with the San Antonio Center for Medical Mycology at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio to develop a multiplexed LATE-PCR assay for the detection and identification of microorganisms associated with oral candidiasis as part of the UT Health Science Center’s NIH-funded project “Detection and Significance of Antifungal Resistance in Oropharyngeal Candidiasis”.  The NIH has provided supplemental funds to expand SACMM’s existing project to include the development and evaluation of the LATE-PCR assay.

The test will be capable of running on equipment typically found in the hospital laboratory, as well as on Smiths Detection’s Clinical Bio-Seeq System, designed to be used at Point of Care in Critical Care settings.

Oropharyngeal candidiasis remains a clinical problem and a common oral manifestation in HIV/AIDS patients despite the availability of antiretroviral therapy. In addition, oral colonization and infection with yeast is an important risk factor in the development of systemic infection. Prompt initiation of appropriate antifungal therapy is important for the treatment of these infections and has been shown to improve outcomes in patient with oral Candida infections as well as those with systemic infections caused by Candida species. Thus, rapid isolation and identification of pathogenic yeasts to the species level is critical for treatment as it helps prevent clinically significant delays in appropriate therapy.

Conventional diagnostic procedures, such as blood culture and biochemical tests lack the degree of sensitivity and specificity that would ensure reliable and early diagnosis of invasive Candida infections.  Existing molecular assays are complex and require multiple tests to be run to cover all of the Candida species of concern.  The development of a multiplex LATE-PCR assay for pathogenic Candida detection will simplify and accelerate the testing process.  With quicker access to information, physicians should be able to prescribe a more rapid and specific course of treatment, thereby improving patient outcomes.

Dr. Thomas F. Patterson, Director of the San Antonio Center for Medical Mycology and Principal Investigator for this work at the UT Health Science Center, had the following comments regarding the collaboration:   “Early and rapid detection of specific Candida species in the mouth could give the clinician important guidance in selecting specific antifungal agents to treat oral yeast infections or to prevent systemic disease.  The targeted use of antifungal agents could dramatically reduce costs and improve outcomes of patients at risk for these infections.”

Bill Mawer, head of Smiths Detection’s Diagnostics business, said: “We are delighted with this collaboration which further extends the network of respected institutions working to use the benefits of LATE PCR to solve important healthcare challenges. Detection and identification of potential causes of systemic infections is an important strategic direction for Smiths Detection Diagnostics and one where the powerful multiplexing capabilities of our technology can have particular impact.”

Development of this highly multiplexed test will be achieved by using Smiths Detection’s LATE-PCR nucleic acid amplification and detection technology. This technology was licensed from Brandeis University, which will also support the project.  The test will be suitable for use in a conventional laboratory setting or in a Point of Care setting running on the Company’s Clinical Bio-Seeq instrument. When using Bio-Seeq, the sample is introduced into a disposable cartridge which is then placed on the instrument.  The system should require no specialised molecular biology training.

ENDS

Media Relations
Colin McSeveny
+44 (0)20 7808 5534

Smiths Detection (www.smithsdetection.com) offers advanced security solutions in civil and military markets worldwide, developing and manufacturing government-regulated technology products that identify explosives, chemical and biological agents, weapons and contraband. Its separate Diagnostics unit takes its technologies and experience into new growth markets, developing ruggedised instruments, easily operated by specialists in veterinary and clinical procedures.  Smiths Detection is part of Smiths Group (www.smiths.com), a global leader in applying advanced technologies to markets in threat as well as contraband detection, energy, medical devices, communications and engineered components. Smiths Group employs around 22,000 people in more than 50 countries.

Disclaimer:
 The project described is supported by Award Number 5R01DE18096 from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research or of the National Institutes of Health.