Test for Antibiotic Resistant Superbugs Launched in Europe
AdvanDx, Incorporated announced the launch of their new locked nucleic acid (LNA) probes, the vanA/B Evigene, in Europe as detailed in a press release. The diagnostic test evaluates for the presence of superbugs resistant to antibiotic therapy, both vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE).
Evigene is used with LNA probes. Evigene is a signal amplified sandwich hybridization assay platform. These combined techniques can detect the presence of the vanA and vanB genes which cause resistance to antibiotic treatment in the two bugs.
LNA probes have a high rate of specificity and sensitivity, which enables detection even in the presence of low abundance nucleic acids. The probes are conformationally restricted nucleic acid analogs. These provide superior discrimination and affinity to DNA probes. The test is the first in vitro product that uses LNA probes for detection.
The tests can be used to assess blood samples or clinical isolates. Detection of the nucleic acid analogs provides information to guide diagnosis and treatment planning, as well as monitoring treatment protocols.
At this time, the vanA/B Evigene is only available in the U.S. for the conduct of research. The vice president of R&D at AdvanDx notes that the European approval heralds the transition of LNA probes as a research tool to application in the clinical care setting.
September 27, 2007 Related topics: Laboratory, Product Launches, Laboratory Equipment