SpeeDx and Nepean Hospital Awarded Federal Funding for Viral Respiratory Biomarker Test - Sep 03, 2020

Australian government funds will support commercialisation of test for COVID-19 patient management

SYDNEY--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- SpeeDx Pty. Ltd., a developer of innovative molecular diagnostic solutions, in partnership with researchers from Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District’s (NBMLHD) Nepean Hospital Intensive Care Unit were awarded funding through the MTPConnect Biomedical Translation Bridge (BTB) program. Funds will support the commercialisation of a respiratory virus host response test – a rapid-response assay to enhance current COVID-19 management activities and future viral pandemic preparedness.

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Utilising newly patented InSignia(TM) technology that enhances the measurement of gene expression, the test will be a rapid, high-throughput tool to support risk-based stratification of patients presenting with respiratory viral illness, including COVID-19. (photo: Sara Eshleman/Wikimedia Commons)

SpeeDx are adapting the NBMLHD laboratory developed test that targets a key genetic marker that is uniquely expressed in response to respiratory virus infection, with levels of the marker correlated with disease progression.^1,2 Utilising newly patented InSignia^TM technology that enhances the measurement of gene expression, the commercial test will be a rapid, high-throughput tool to support risk-based stratification of patients presenting with respiratory viral illness, including COVID-19.

“The MTPConnect BTB funding will be instrumental in advancing our commercialisation process and supporting the tight timelines we are setting in order to bring this important product to market” said Colin Denver, SpeeDx CEO.

Delivered by MTPConnect, the Australian Government’s BTB program is a $22.3 million MRFF initiative that provides up to $1 million in matched funding to nurture the translation of new therapies, technologies and medical devices through to proof of concept to turn innovative medical ideas into reality.

About SpeeDx
Founded in 2009, SpeeDx is an Australian-based private company with subsidiary offices in Austin and London, and distributors across Europe. SpeeDx specializes in molecular diagnostic solutions that go beyond simple detection to offer comprehensive information for improved patient management. Innovative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technology has driven market-leading multiplex detection and priming strategies. Product portfolios focus on multiplex diagnostics for sexually transmitted infection (STI), antibiotic resistance markers, and respiratory disease. For more information on SpeeDx please see: https://plexpcr.com

About Nepean and Blue Mountains Local Health District
Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District is well placed to draw on over 100 years of continuously caring for the community, conducting research and delivering innovation. The Nepean Hospital Intensive Care Unit is part of NBMLHD’s 5,700-strong staff. Being on the frontline of health means NBMLHD has a focus on practical solutions that deliver maximum impact to the health and wellbeing of patients and their families.

References

1. Tang BM et al. Eur Respir J. 2017 Jun 15;49(6):1602098.
2. https://www.smh.com.au/national/covid-19-blood-test-to-predict-which-patients-will-need-the-most-care-20200406-p54hja.html

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