NOVATO, CA (Tuesday, Sept 22, 2009) – Biosearch Technologies, Inc. (Biosearch), a leading supplier of sophisticated oligonucleotide components to the rapidly growing molecular diagnostics industry, today announced that the company has been selected for two Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) grants from the Department of Defense (DoD). The purpose of both Phase I grants is to develop rapid, and highly sensitive analyte specific reagents (ASRs) for a total of twelve pathogens of military importance. The ASRs will be based on real time quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) modified for field deployment in overseas military operations. The first grant includes six viral target pathogens (Dengue, Rift Valley Fever, Sand Fly Fever, Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, Tick-Borne Encephalitis, and Chikungunya), while the second includes six Rickettsial pathogens (the causative agents of typhus, spotted fever, anaplasmosis, Ehrlichioses, and Q fever). Many of these agents are listed as Category A or B Priority Pathogens by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). Successful completion of Phase I is expected to lead to a multiyear Phase II award.
Jerry Ruth, PhD, is the Director of Research and Development at Biosearch, and the Principal Investigator of the Award. Dr Ruth comments, “Reagents for the rapid and specific detection of highly infectious and often lethal diseases in the field of operations are of paramount importance in saving the lives of military personnel. Additionally, such reagents are also the key to identifying the source and limiting the spread of such pathogens.”
About Biosearch Technologies, Inc.
Biosearch Technologies, Inc. is a privately held, ISO 9001:2008 certified located in northern California. Founded in 1993, Biosearch is a leader in the design, development and manufacture of sophisticated oligonucleotide-based tools. Products include fluorophores (CAL Fluor®, Quasar® and Pulsar® dyes) and dark quenchers (Black Hole Quencher® dyes) to be included in custom-synthesized probe formats for real-time, quantitative PCR and other genomic-based applications.
In addition to basic R&D applications, Biosearch now leverages its demonstrated expertise in fully assembled kits and the cGMP manufacture of oligonucleotides for molecular diagnostic assays. As a Class I ASR manufacturer, Biosearch’s manufacturing processes conform to all applicable GMP requirements per 21 CFR Part 820. Biosearch markets include pharmaceutical, diagnostic IVD, biotech, ag/bio, environmental and food testing, public health, and biodefense sectors.
For additional information about Biosearch Technologies, Inc., contact info@biosearchtech.com or visit www.biosearchtech.com.
