Analytical Chemistry: Faster, More Cost-Effective DNA Test Developed

Scientists in Japan are reporting development of a faster, less expensive version of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), a DNA test widely used in disease diagnosis and other applications. In the new study, Naohiro Noda and colleagues note that PCR works by "amplifying" previously undetectable traces of DNA almost like photocopiers produce multiple copies of documents. With PCR, crime scene investigators can change traces of DNA into amounts that can be identified and linked to a suspect. Biologists can produce multiple copies of individual genes to study gene function, evolution, and other topics. Doctors can amplify the DNA from microbes in a patient's blood to diagnose an infection. Current PCR methods, however, are too expensive and cumbersome for wide use.

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Siemens Healthcare has been awarded to provide a hospital information system to 37 hospitals and about 300 clinics throughout the Gauteng Department of Health (Gauteng DoH) in South Africa. The order volume is about €18 million and the system will be implemented within the next three years. This is the first project of its kind for Siemens Healthcare in South Africa. Gauteng is South Africa’s fastest growing province regarding population.

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GE Healthcare announced that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has accepted the New Drug Application (NDA) for DaTSCAN (Ioflupane I123 Injection) for priority review.  DaTSCAN is a radiopharmaceutical agent containing Ioflupane (¹²³I) in development for a proposed indication of the detection of loss of functional nigrostraiatal dopaminergic neurons by single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging in patients presenting with symptoms or signs suggestive of dopaminergic neurodegeneration. A priority review designation is intended for drugs that offer major advances in treatment, or provide treatment where no adequate therapy exists. The FDA's goal is to review and act on 90 percent of NDAs designated as priority review within six months of receipt.

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With rapid change taking place in the surgical environment as the range of interventional and minimally invasive procedures continues to expand, Royal Philips Electronics (AEX: PHI, NYSE: PHG) today announced the availability of the Veradius X-ray system. A mobile C-arm with a super thin, flat detector, Philips Veradius is designed to give the surgeon more flexibility and to improve patient care by streamlining workflow and improving image quality. The system also includes an additional monitor on the C-arm stand, enabling the operator to have an unobstructed view of the live image.

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 Abbott and Oasmia Pharmaceutical have announced a multi-year agreement to market one of the first cancer medications for dogs. The chemotherapeutic agent, called Paccal® Vet (micellar paclitaxel), represents the first generation of treatments of its kind and is currently being studied to treat Grade II and Grade III canine mast cell tumors where curative surgery cannot be performed. Under the terms of the agreement, Abbott will obtain exclusive rights to distribute Paccal Vet for veterinary use in the United States and Canada, and will be responsible for sales and marketing. Oasmia is responsible for clinical development, manufacturing and registration. Financial terms were not disclosed.

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