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Press release
		International news coverage Southampton scientists race to deliver DNA Swine Flu test 29 April 2009 A team of genetics experts in Southampton are working against the clock to produce the world’s first DNA test for the Mexican strain of Swine Flu.PrimerDesign specialises in producing high-tech DNA detection kits. The system identifies genetic conditions much faster and more accurately than traditional diagnosis techniques. The company was founded by University of Southampton scientists and is part of the University’s SETsquared Business Incubation programme. Staff at the PrimerDesign laboratories realised they were ideally positioned to create the first DNA Swine Flu test when the US Centre for Disease Control published the genetic data for the killer virus this week. Coordinator of the Swine Flu DNA project, Dr Rob Powell said, “With the release of the unique genetic code for this dangerous virus strain we’re able to develop the ultimate diagnosis tool within the next few days”. “At PrimerDesign we’re able to produce synthetic DNA that matches the virus exactly, without ever having to come into contact with the flu itself.” The test can deliver a diagnosis for any suspected sufferer within two hours.” Since the genetic materials needed for the new technique are so microscopic, the Southampton team could very quickly produce enough test kits for hospitals across Europe if needed. The kits will be fully developed and ready to go within the week. PrimerDesign Ltd already produces genetic detection kits for numerous other viruses and conditions, it is likely that this will be the first DNA diagnosis for the Mexican Swine Flu anywhere in the world. The SETsquared Incubation Programme at the University of Southampton provides intensive business support to high-tech start-up companies. One of four centers in Southern England, the program uses in-house expertise and a network of seasoned entrepreneurs, investment advisors, professional services firms and academics to provide the breadth and depth of support that emerging technology companies of the future require. PrimerDesign moved from the Centre in 2008 to Millbrook Technology Campus, where they continue to grow. Press office contacts Please direct all media enquiries to the Media Relations office, which is open from Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.15pm. Tel. 023 8059 3212 Email: press@soton.ac.uk

Press release

International news coverage

Southampton scientists race to deliver DNA Swine Flu test

29 April 2009

A team of genetics experts in Southampton are working against the clock to produce the world’s first DNA test for the Mexican strain of Swine Flu.PrimerDesign specialises in producing high-tech DNA detection kits. The system identifies genetic conditions much faster and more accurately than traditional diagnosis techniques. The company was founded by University of Southampton scientists and is part of the University’s SETsquared Business Incubation programme.

Staff at the PrimerDesign laboratories realised they were ideally positioned to create the first DNA Swine Flu test when the US Centre for Disease Control published the genetic data for the killer virus this week.

Coordinator of the Swine Flu DNA project, Dr Rob Powell said, “With the release of the unique genetic code for this dangerous virus strain we’re able to develop the ultimate diagnosis tool within the next few days”.

“At PrimerDesign we’re able to produce synthetic DNA that matches the virus exactly, without ever having to come into contact with the flu itself.” The test can deliver a diagnosis for any suspected sufferer within two hours.”

Since the genetic materials needed for the new technique are so microscopic, the Southampton team could very quickly produce enough test kits for hospitals across Europe if needed. The kits will be fully developed and ready to go within the week.

PrimerDesign Ltd already produces genetic detection kits for numerous other viruses and conditions, it is likely that this will be the first DNA diagnosis for the Mexican Swine Flu anywhere in the world.

The SETsquared Incubation Programme at the University of Southampton provides intensive business support to high-tech start-up companies. One of four centers in Southern England, the program uses in-house expertise and a network of seasoned entrepreneurs, investment advisors, professional services firms and academics to provide the breadth and depth of support that emerging technology companies of the future require. PrimerDesign moved from the Centre in 2008 to Millbrook Technology Campus, where they continue to grow.

Press office contacts
Please direct all media enquiries to the Media Relations office, which is open from Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.15pm.
Tel. 023 8059 3212
Email: press@soton.ac.uk