NEW YORK — Belgian molecular diagnostics software developer UgenTec has partnered with LGC Biosearch Technologies to launch an artificial intelligence-based workflow for the detection of the 2019-nCoV coronavirus, the companies said on Wednesday.
Specific terms of the alliance were not disclosed.
According to the companies, the research-use-only workflow is based on UgenTec's flagship FastFinder PCR diagnostics software platform and Biosearch's reagents. The workflow is compatible with common PCR devices and can transfer de-identified and anonymized test results to disease control organizations.
"In times like these, labs have to respond to crises fast and handle increasing volumes of samples with existing personnel," UgenTec CEO Steven Verhoeven said in a statement. "With our software, labs are able to standardize the interpretation of results and simplify the communication with government disease centers."
Biosearch, a subsidiary of London-based LGC, recently began expediting availability of its Black Hole and Blackberry Quenchers and other dyes and components for use in 2019-nCoV diagnostic kits.