Ambri to fast-track cheaper biosensor

Sydney biosensor developer Ambri (ASX:ABI) has decided to bypass 'Go' with its SensiDx point-of-care biochip system, and fast-track second-generation chip capable of performing up to six different antibody tests simultaneously.

Ambri said recent R&D work with its international partners, Dow Corning Corporation and Genencor International, would allow it to develop a new, more versatile, low-cost biosensor over the next 12 months.

Ambri moved to commercialise its SensiDx technology after its successful clinical trial of a pregnancy test chip at Sydney's Royal North Shore and St Vincent's hospitals this year. The company had planned to spend AUD$8 million on developing and commercialising the first-generation biosensor, but will now reallocate the funds to developing its miniaturised, second-generation biochip.

The devices exploit Ambri's patented ion-channel sensor (ICS) technology, a protein 'gate' that opens to permit a flow of charged atoms -- ions -- when an antibody linked to the switch detects its target antigen in a biological sample. The resulting change in the electrical conductivity of the biosensor is registered by a hand-held electronic reader, confirming the match.

Ambri's Mark 1 biosensor, which was mounted on a special membrane, was limited to a single antibody test. The new system, mounted on an inexpensive silicon wafer, will run up to six tests in parallel.

Ambri's CFO, Jeff Carter, said the chip could be used, for example, to check for up to six different lung pathogens, or to check a water sample for waterborne parasites and bacteria, including Giardia and Cryptosporidium and coliform bacteria.

Ambri is focusing on medical applications -- the company says the new-generation chip will open up applications beyond the hospital critical-care market that has been its early focus. It is expected to create opportunities in the much larger diagnostics market in medical clinics, doctors' offices, retail pharmacies, and even in the home.

Consumer applications for the technology have already been licensed to a Dow-Genencor joint spin-off, Biosensor Enterprises.

The company has selected six tests for the fast-track project, based on their attractiveness to potential commercial partners, and Ambri's access to the required monoclonal antibodies.

Ambri's MD and CEO, Roman Zwolenski, who left for Germany this week for discussions with potential partners, said the company was not ready to disclose the nature of the six tests until it had secured antibody supplies, and had freedom to operate.