This patent covers the Actiphage® technology that allows the sensitive and specific detection of live bacteria within a few hours. Currently applied to the detection of mycobacterial diseases in animals such as Bovine Tuberculosis (TB) and Johne’s Disease, the technology is also applicable to human infections including other bacterial families.
Dr Berwyn Clarke, PBD Biotech’s Chief Executive Officer, comments, “The technology has already been successfully applied for analysis of blood and milk and, for the first time, gives a realistic alternative to culture but within 6 to 8 hours rather than many weeks. Having the patent granted for the Actiphage Rapid technology is a major milestone for the company and allows us to confidently pursue our commercialisation plans in Europe and internationally.”
Mycobacterial infection is responsible for several chronic diseases worldwide and existing diagnostics are limited by sensitivity, accuracy and speed of delivering reliable results.
Earlier this year, the UK Government Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) approved Actiphage for exceptional private use in farms where there is chronic infection of bovine TB. This followed a successful on-farm demonstration, which used Actiphage to provide early identification of affected cows as part of a successful disease management strategy.
Dr Clarke continues: “Grant of the European patent strengthens our belief in the uniqueness of this test, and also ensures that our investment in further developing this technology for other applications is safeguarded.”
