The objective of this proposal is to develop a novel nucleic acid testing system intended to provide revolutionary benefits to the diagnostics and healthcare industry. The system will enable the less experienced professional to perform more sophisticated nucleic acid testing in a less expensive setting with greater speed. The technical foundation of this product is the lab-in-a-tube platform. This device will automate and integrate all nucleic acid testing steps, including DNA extraction, amplification and detection, within a closed sample tube; thus, reducing test complexity, turnaround time, cost and the possibility of contamination and operator error. In addition, the sample tube is used to directly collect raw biological samples. Rapid extraction and amplification of genomic DNA has been achieved on a prototype of the system in less than 20 minutes. The system has wide reaching applications to SNP detection, genotyping, and mutation detection. This sample-to-answer system is handheld for point-of-care or field use in a variety of environments. It is designed for extended battery operation. We believe that this system will lead the next-generation of tools for pharmaceutical discovery, therapeutics for disease, clinical diagnostics, bio-defense and agricultural and industrial testing. It is planned for commercial introduction in 2004.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase II (R44)
Project #
2R44HL067568-02
Application #
6551375
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-SSS-Y (10))
Program Officer
Baldwin, Tim
Project Start
2001-05-15
Project End
2004-07-31
Budget Start
2002-09-05
Budget End
2003-07-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2002
Total Cost
$859,919
Indirect Cost
Name
Iquum, Inc.
Department
Type
DUNS #
125606017
City
Marlborough
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
01752