TwistDx has launched the Twistamp product range, comprising DNA amplification products based in recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA).
The company has also unveiled the Twista - a portable, real-time fluorometer that acts as an easy-to-use RPA reader.
RPA is a proprietary technique, employing recombinase enzymes, used to amplify nucleic acids in any biological sample, with high analytical sensitivity and specificity.
Each of the four currently available Twistamp kits offers scientists the ability to detect DNA molecules in a mixed sample within 10-15 minutes, less than half the time of most PCR systems.
Moreover, RPA operates at low, constant temperatures and does not require initial melting of the sample DNA, opening the way to broader access to end users without reliance on expensive thermocyclers.
RPA has also been shown to be highly resistant to crude samples, suggesting applications in on-the-spot field testing requiring no nucleic acid extraction.
The Twista portable real-time fluorometer is a customised platform containing proprietary fluorescent probe systems developed by the company to accurately monitor RPA reactions.
Although integrated with the Twista device, Twistamp kits can be used in combination with various, widely used assay platforms, such as conventional analysis tools (for example, on agarose gels), dipsticks, as well as broadly available fluorescence plate readers and real-time PCR machines.
Dr Niall Armes, chief executive officer of TwistDx, said: 'Field researchers may be able to easily perform their measurements in a mobile setting as Twistamp enzyme and nucleotide mixes are provided in a freeze-dried form that demonstrates good stability at ambient temperatures.
'The Twista device will be available with portable battery pack and standalone software.'
