High-speed single molecule detection combining short DNA probes and barcoding bioinformatics for use as a new broad spectrum point-of-care diagnostic

Based in Cambridge, Base4 is developing a single-molecule detector with the capacity for detection of up to 1 billion single molecules per second, thousands of times faster than is otherwise possible. Entirely solid-state, there is a well-worn path towards large scale production and the cost of consumables will be very low. Not reliant on enzymes or pathogen binding sites, there is significant capacity to rapidly increase the number of target pathogens which can be tested simultaneously. The aim of this project is to produce a rapid, highly sensitive, low-cost multiple analyte diagnostic for use in point-of-care specifically targeting the pathogens C. difficile, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and MRSA. The project will last 3 years and will result in pilot trials beginning in month 24. The consortium will be led by Base4, with partners including the Pathogen Sequencing Unit at the Sanger Wellcome Trust, the University of Cambridge Veterinary School, and the Pathology Dept at Addenbrookes Hospital.