DnaNudge, a spin-out of Imperial College London, and NantNudge have signed a multi-million-dollar agreement for the launch of a new handheld polymerase chain reaction (PCR) genomic diagnostic cartridge.
NantNudge will manufacture the NantCartridge hand-held genomics PCR device, the NantBeam wearable camera, the activity monitor, the barcode scanner and the NantChip cartridge.
The company will offer quick, lab-free point-of-decision diagnostics at an accelerated rate to a wider audience across the world, including Central, South and North America and Africa.
NantChip is a lab in a cartridge with personalised genomic diagnostic chips for the medical, healthcare and consumer sectors.
NantNudge has announced the soft launch of its NantBeam device, a wearable camera, activity tracker and barcode scanner, at the Inspirational Women’s Forum in Los Angeles.
The NantBeam links to the individual's mobile phone and employs artificial intelligence (AI) data to provide personalised insights regarding food and cosmetic products that are suitable for a healthy lifestyle based on personal genomics.
The portable PCR genomic diagnostic cartridge and chip are expected to help provide real-time decision support while also having the potential to transform the process of diagnosing infections and assessing cancer risks through personal genomics at the point of decision.
NantWorks and NantNudge founder Dr Patrick Soon-Shiong said: “This genomics PCR device, I believe, will be an inflection point for capturing genomic signals on a very personalised basis and transforming how we work, live and play.
“I am proud to have been associated with Imperial College of London for all these years and I am excited that, together with Chris and his team, we will accelerate the clinical adoption of this first-in-kind PCR device.”
NantNudge plans to launch its "Quad" test this year after regulatory approval. This test enables the rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2, FluA, FluB and RSV using a single cartridge.
Furthermore, a co-development programme will be initiated to produce rapid out-of-lab testing panels designed to tackle global health issues, including infectious diseases, precision medicine, oncology, diabetic foot and uterine infections, sexually transmitted diseases and antimicrobial resistance.
