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June 30, 2020

Ultrafast RT-PCR for COVID-19 by Molecular Biology Systems draws Dutch government support

Goes, Netherlands, June 30, 2020 -- Dutch biotechnology company, Molecular Biology Systems, B.V. (MBS) has announced a publication detailing the use of its revolutionary NEXTGENPCR endpoint thermocycler to test for SARS-CoV-2 with a one-step reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in 16 minutes. The article, titled " Ultra-fast one-step RT-PCR protocol for the detection of SARS-CoV-2," has been submitted as a preprint is available here:https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.06.25.20137398v1

“We immediately started with a COVID-19 diagnostic project, since we already got a NEXTGENPCR thermocycler for sepsis diagnostics. Using this technology, we demonstrated with clinical RNA isolates, the ability to dramatically increase SARS-CoV-2 testing throughput without a loss in sensitivity.” says Prof. Dr. Christian Kaltschmidt, Cell Biology of the University of Bielefeld, the senior author of the publication.

MBS has developed and released two software packages that result in a streamlined workflow from isolated nucleic acid sample to result. First, the machine’s operating system has been updated with two enabling features, onboard reverse transcription and 2-step PCR. These features decrease the number of handling steps, and plate shuttling time which together result in an improved, shorter protocol. The second software package automates the measurement and analysis of endpoint fluorescence, allowing users to automate calls based on predetermined thresholds.

“After accelerating the CDC assay, we received a lot of positive feedback.” says MBS CEO and founder, Gert de Vos. “We added software, tested more WHO-recommended protocols and have collaborated with labs to deliver a demonstration of ultrafast RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2.

To support companies responding to COVID-19, the Dutch government has awarded funds to MBS. Rosco Ephraïm, Project Manager Impuls Zeeland, stated "MBS demonstrated a clear contribution to the advancement of SARS-CoV-2 testing both locally and globally, so the government awarded these funds to ensure this innovative company executes its mission.”

With a single NEXTGENPCR system delivering over 570 test results per hour, MBS is now collaborating with government and private testing laboratories in the USA, Europe, the Middle East and Africa to implement this method.

Find out more at www.nextgenpcr.com

About Molecular Biology Systems

Molecular Biology Systems, B.V., founded in 2015, is a molecular biology solutions company based in Netherlands. Their NEXTGENPCR thermocycler uses patented heating and cooling technology to reduce PCR amplification cycles from hours to minutes. These technological advances are intended to support laboratorians across the life sciences market reduce costs and accelerate results.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

Media contact:

Brian McNally, PhD

Molecular Biology Systems B.V.

[email protected]

+1 301.366.1083

Ultrafast RT-PCR for COVID-19 by Molecular Biology Systems draws Dutch government support

Written By: Brian McNally, VelocidyBio

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES 51 “BUILD TO SCALE” GRANTS TOTALING $47 MILLION TO FUEL INNOVATION AND TECH-BASED ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding 51 “Build to Scale” grants – totaling $47 million – to organizations that support technology entrepreneurs, catalyze innovation and fuel economic growth.

EDA’s “Build to Scale” program provides annual grants that aim to accelerate technology entrepreneurship by increasing inclusive access to entrepreneurial support and startup capital. The 2022 awardees will leverage an additional $48 million in matching funds from a variety of private and public sector sources. These EDA investments support advanced manufacturing, bioscience, clean energy and blue economy clusters in regions throughout the United States.

"Strengthening technology ecosystems are a critical key to the Biden Administration's efforts to build a stronger America,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “Innovation and entrepreneurship have long been keys to American success and will continue to strengthen our collective economic and national security, as well as individual prosperity and well-being.”

"EDA is proud to partner with this year's 'Build to Scale' grantees as they invest in entrepreneurs and create equitable access to capital in their communities," said Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo. "These projects will give the next generation of industry-leading companies a seminal boost that will result in job creation and private investment – potentially transforming a regional economy and creating economic opportunity beyond what we can foresee.”

The 2022 Build to Scale program was comprised of two competitions––the Venture Challenge and the Capital Challenge. The Venture Challenge supports programs that enable high-growth technology entrepreneurship and foster inclusive access to proven entrepreneurship support models. The Capital Challenge increases access to capital in communities where risk capital is in short supply by providing operational support for early-stage investment funds, networks, and training programs that focus on both traditional and hybrid equity-based financing.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov)
The mission of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is to lead the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing the nation's regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. An agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, EDA invests in communities and supports regional collaboration in order to create jobs for U.S. workers, promote American innovation, and accelerate long-term sustainable economic growth.