Biological-agent detection systems under development

Cepheid, a developer of integrated DNA testing systems, and Baltimore-based Environmental Technologies Group, part of Smiths Aerospace, today announced they are collaborating to develop biological-agent detection systems for military and other applications.

Under the agreement, the companies will develop and design bio-detection systems based on Cepheid's proprietary technologies for the capture, purification, amplification and detection of DNA.

Cepheid will provide sub-systems and sub-assemblies to ETG for integration into, and manufacture of, fully automated bio-detection systems that will range from hand-held units to stationary monitoring systems for use in a variety of military and civilian settings.

Cepheid's I-CORE and microfluidic technologies will be key components of the DNA detection systems.

The systems will be manufactured and marketed on a worldwide basis by ETG and its sister company Graseby Dynamics Limited under royalty-bearing licenses from Cepheid.

Financial and other terms of the agreement were not disclosed.