Sepsis, a life-threatening response to infection, demands rapid and precise diagnosis to improve patient outcomes. Novus Diagnostics, in collaboration with the Microfluidics Innovation Hub (MIH), is pioneering a breakthrough in sepsis diagnostics with their advanced technology, SepTec. This innovative platform provides near-patient, rapid detection of sepsis-causing pathogens within 15 minutes, offering a transformative solution to the critical challenges in sepsis management.

The Challenge with Traditional Methods

Traditional methods of diagnosing sepsis, such as blood cultures or PCR, are often slow and complex, typically taking several hours to days. These delays can be fatal, as timely and appropriate treatment is crucial. The need for faster, more efficient diagnostic tools is imperative to reduce sepsis-related mortality and improve patient care.

Novus Dx's Innovative Approach

At the core of Novus Dx's solution is the SepTec assay, an in vitro diagnostic device designed to detect and differentiate sepsis pathogens directly from whole blood. This technology leverages antibody-mediated capture combined with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to identify gram-positive bacteria, gram-negative bacteria, and fungal pathogens quickly and accurately.

Key Components of SepTec:

• Analyzer Instrument: Automates the diagnostic process and provides results in real-time.

• Disposable Cartridge: Features a patented nano-textured membrane and specific antibodies to capture and identify pathogens.

• Microfluidic Technology: Facilitates the movement and processing of blood samples within the cartridge, ensuring efficient and precise detection.

The Impact on Diagnostics and Treatment

Novus Dx's SepTec technology promises to revolutionize sepsis diagnostics by delivering several critical benefits:

• Speed: Provides results within 15 minutes, enabling immediate clinical decisions and early initiation of targeted antimicrobial therapy.

• Accuracy: High sensitivity (100%) and specificity (>95%) minimize false positives and negatives, ensuring reliable pathogen detection.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Simplifies the diagnostic process and reduces costs by eliminating the need for central lab facilities and specialized personnel.

• Antibiotic Stewardship: Promotes targeted antimicrobial therapy, reducing the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics and helping to combat antibiotic resistance.