An independent technology and product development company, TTP, and Cubed Laboratories, a developer of rapid, DNA-based molecular diagnostic devices and test kits, have announced the successful completion of a project to develop Cubed’s core product, the NESDEP portable laboratory for pathogen detection. This accurate, high-throughput and easy-to-use system has benefits in the food safety industry and potentially beyond.
Cubed engaged TTP towards the end of 2017 to undertake a rapid redesign and repackaging of its NESDEP device. Working from the base technology developed by Cubed, TTP’s Desktop Biology team conducted a bottom-up repackaging and development programme focusing on aesthetics, ease of use, and manufacturability. A workshop in May marked the beginning of formally transferring the design to manufacture. TTP has now shipped pre-production prototypes to Cubed, and manufacture of the system is underway.
The newest market-ready NESDEP permits the detection of pathogens in less than 90 minutes, from introduction of a raw sample to the full completion of the assay. NESDEP is a portable laboratory that can be used by a lay person without specialised training or experience. It can be used in virtually any indoor or outdoor location with access to power. Each NESDEP test kit contains a biochip programmed to test for specific biological material. It will provide customers with significant cost savings and aid in the effort to reduce the incidence of foodborne illnesses.