An NIH Technology Opportunity Webinar

Register and join us on January 26 for an NIH technology webinar. Attendees will hear from the National Eye Institute’s Dr. Robert Hufnagel about a novel RNA preparation method improving RT-qPCR detection of SARS-CoV-2 and other RNA viruses. The groundbreaking technology is available for collaboration and licensing to accelerate its development into clinical benefit.

Dr. Robert Hufnagel
Chief, Ophthalmic Genomics Laboratory, NEI

About the featured technology

DNA or RNA-based diagnostic tests for infectious diseases are critical in modern medicine. In particular, the current gold standard for COVID-19 detection is testing for SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA by quantitative reverse transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR). The current clinical detection of SARS-CoV-2 involves collection of a patient’s sample with a nasopharyngeal swab or saliva, storage of the sample during transport, extraction of RNA, and detection assay (RT-qPCR). NEI researchers developed a simple preparation method using a chelating resin, eliminating the RNA extraction step and shortening the overall testing time. Viral detection is similar to the current method with RNA extraction using patient samples. Furthermore, the initial sample heating step inactivates SARS-CoV-2 infectivity, thus improving workflow safety and eliminating the need for a BSL-2 facility. This fast RNA preparation and detection method can be used for a variety of sample types, is safe for clinical staff, and is suitable for standard clinical collection and high-volume testing for both DNA and RNA.

Technology Competitive Advantages

• Eliminates the RNA extraction step from RT-qPCR
• Improves safety and ease-of-use
• Increases test sensitivity
• Reduces testing time and cost

Why attend?

• Assess co-developing and/or licensing this technology
• Interact with the inventor, ask questions and provide feedback
• Learn how to partner with the NIH

Who should attend?

• Business development professionals
• Medical device professionals
• Drug development professionals
• Biotech/pharma/academia researchers
• Investors and entrepreneurs