Native Antigen Established to Provide Purification Services for IVD Industry

A new firm specialized in the purification and supply of native viral and bacterial antigens for the in vitro diagnostic (IVD) industry has been established as a spin-out from U.K.-based psiOxus (formerly Hybrid BioSystems). The Native Antigen Company (NAC) claims to have the scope and capacity to produce almost any native antigen, from low volumes to bulk.

The firm, in addition, offers adenovirus purification and production capabilities and a screening service for anticancer and antiviral drug compounds. NAC achieved ISO 9001:2008 accreditation for the development, manufacture, and sale of native antigens in November 2011.

NAC will specialize in manufacturing of native antigens but also offers a range of products and purities, from cell lysates to gradient purified pathogens, for a range of organisms. These include adenovirus types 3, 5, 11, 12, and type 5 hexon protein along with astrovirus type 1, Chlamydia trachomatis, HSV types 1 and 2, Neisseria gonorrhea, and Trichomonas vaginalis. Mycoplasma pneumonia products are in development.

“Most antigens used in current diagnostic kits are not native and can thus lack the specificity and sensitivity which we offer with our native antigens,” remarks Andrew Mawell, CEO at NAC. “Industry has become reliant on recombinant antigens in part due to perceived cost savings and ease of manufacture. There is a clear gap for an innovative company that can focus its expertise in the isolation and purification of native antigens and is prepared to work closely with the kit manufacturers to provide tailored, cost-effective solutions.”