NEW YORK (GenomeWeb News) – US Genomics said today that Becton Dickinson has taken a $4.5 million equity investment in the firm, and the two companies will collaborate to develop a molecular diagnostic test for infectious disease.
Under the collaboration, the companies will develop US Genomics’ DirectLinear Analysis technology for use in a test that will detect a range of pathogens based on genotype.
A test based on the DLA technology, which integrates labeling, microfluidics, and optics, could identify a pathogen and test for virulence and drug resistance in a sample within hours, as opposed to several days, US Genomics said.
The test could help doctors predict what drugs a pathogen may be resistant to, and which drugs might make the most effective treatment, the company added.
US Genomics said that it has so far invested more than $50 million in developing the DLA technology, with support from venture funding, the US Department of Homeland Security, the National Science Foundation, and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency.
US Genomics’ CEO, John Canepa, said in a statement that DLA’s uses include bio-security, bio-surveillance, and environmental and food safety testing.