Test will be developed on the Enigma ML and is expected to be available in about two years.

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Enigma Diagnostics inked a pact to a provide point-of-care influenza test. As per the worldwide agreement, the diagnostic will be developed on Enigma’s PCR technology, the Enigma ML (mini laboratory).

GSK will reportedly make a small equity investment in Enigma, pay an up-front fee, and provide R&D funding. Further payments will be subject to development progress and agreed milestones, and the companies will share profits.

A trial involving working prototypes of the ML system with front-line healthcare providers across Europe will commence in the fourth quarter. Launch of Enigma ML is anticipated in early 2011.

The aim is to be able to test for specific flu subtypes and deliver fully automated results from swab samples in less than 60 minutes with the same accuracy as reference labs. Operators of the Enigma ML system will not require specialist training, according to the companies.

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