Nanosphere Announces Protein BioMarker Detection Capabilities
NORTHBROOK, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 8, 2003--Through a licensing agreement with Northwestern University, Nanosphere Inc., a nanotechnology-based life sciences company, has acquired breakthrough nanoparticle detection technology for protein biomarkers. This technology, when combined with Nanosphere's proprietary nanoparticle-based detection systems for DNA, positions the company to broadly impact the fields of molecular diagnostics, genomics and proteomics.
Nanosphere's new technology, which was invented by Nanosphere co-founder and Northwestern University Professor Chad Mirkin, exhibits one million times more sensitivity than standard methods in the detection of prostate specific antigen (PSA), a widely recognized protein linked to prostate cancer. It can be extended to other important markers for diseases such as HIV, Alzheimer's disease, and many forms of cancer. Research findings are published in the September 26, 2003, issue of Science.
"This advancement further demonstrates the power of Nanosphere's molecular testing systems, which provide orders-of-magnitude improved sensitivity and specificity over current detection methods," said Vijaya Vasista, Nanosphere's Chief Operating Officer. "Nanosphere's platform addresses current needs in DNA and RNA detection, and as genomics evolves into proteomics, Nanosphere's detection platform will seamlessly migrate to protein biomarkers as well."
Nanosphere launched Verigene(TM) ID, its first molecular detection system, in June 2003 for diagnostic and nanoparticle research environments, and in September 2003 the company moved its headquarters to an expanded 40,000-sq. ft. space. Nanosphere has raised approximately $24 million since its incorporation in 2000.
Nanosphere, a privately held life sciences company with headquarters in Northbrook, Ill., is developing a universal molecular testing platform that sets a new standard and improves patient care and enhances public safety. Nanosphere's platform, that has 1,000 times greater sensitivity and 10,000 times greater specificity than current molecular systems, addresses the persistent need for systems that can quickly and easily detect a wide range of life-threatening diseases. For more information, visit the company's web site at nanosphere.us. |
