Diagnostics company NanoLogix (OTCBB:NNLX) reported that its rapid-bacteria-detection technology performed more quickly than the industry standard in the detection of live tuberculosis.
Youngstown, Ohio-area NanoLogix said its BioNanoPore technology was able to detect live tuberculosis in four days, compared with a 21-day standard for live culture tuberculosis detection, according to a statement from the company.
The test results were obtained from an unidentified third-party laboratory that will remain anonymous until the research is published in a scientific journal, according to NanoLogix.
The company’s BioNanoPore technology involve a proprietary water-permeable cellulose membrane that’s surrounded by a nutrient mix and lays in a petri dish. Bacteria grows on the membrane, which is then transferred to a staining plate, and allows bacterial micro colonies to become visible more quickly than competing technologies, according to the company.
“We are ecstatic over the third-party, for-day TB test results,” said CEO Bret Barnhizer. “Typically, physicians must wait at least 21 days to determine if a patient should be put on antibiotics for TB.”
Tuberculosis is an infectious disease that mainly affects the lungs. Its bacteria is typically spread from person to person via coughing and sneezing.
NanoLogix’s technology is being studied for the detection of several types of bacteria, including E. coli, cholera, salmonella and anthrax.
A Deep-dive Into Specialty Pharma
A specialty drug is a class of prescription medications used to treat complex, chronic or rare medical conditions. Although this classification was originally intended to define the treatment of rare, also termed “orphan” diseases, affecting fewer than 200,000 people in the US, more recently, specialty drugs have emerged as the cornerstone of treatment for chronic and complex diseases such as cancer, autoimmune conditions, diabetes, hepatitis C, and HIV/AIDS.
A clinical trial earlier this year found that the company’s technology detects Group B Streptococcus faster than leading alternatives.
