Biochip: audience favorite Global Entrepreneurship Competition
Outbreak of infectious diseases such as SARS, swine flu (H1N1 virus), avian influenza (H5N1 virus) and dengue fever can cause significant morbidity and mortality in addition to seriously affecting the national economies of tourism-centric countries. Biological warfare employs pathogenic bacteria or viruses as an “invisible” weapon which can be deployed without warning at any time. In 2001 nearly four million animals were slaughtered in Europe to prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease (FMD) during a massive veterinary pandemic.
The challenge during these crises is to rapidly detect such infectious agents, even at low levels, in both victims and the environment, to contain the spread of disease and to isolate the sources. Today there is no diagnostic technology platform that can meet this challenge. Centralised laboratory testing requires transportation of the sample to a distant location and takes several hours of testing to provide a result.
Our solution is the patent-pending RAP*DNA platform which allows PCR (polymerase chain reaction) based detection of DNA or RNA from infectious agents in less than 15 minutes in the field, by untrained personnel. Our integrated and automated diagnostic device, with gold-standard PCR accuracy and very low cost assay format is practical and economical for wide-spread deployment across doctor’s clinics, border-crossings and remote locations. The RAP*DNA platform can be configured for real time tracking via internet, GPS or SMS to provide centralised surveillance and monitoring, thus enabling local and international health authorities and agencies to have real time mapping of epidemiological information for immediate response and containment.
Singapore-incorporated Biochip Devises Pte Ltd’s hybrid business model includes direct sales in niche applications as well as a comprehensive out-licensing program to ensure maximum market penetration across a wide range of clinical, veterinary, military, food and environmental applications.
Junio 11th, 2009 at 16:12
The single-most fear today is not global warming or other environmental calamities but some tiny invisible mutating viruses - be it H1N1 or the Bird Flu or the Ebola. The Biochip Devises represents man’s hopes in early detection. I cannot see why the award this year should not go to Biochip Devises.
Junio 12th, 2009 at 1:41
This device is a wonderful invention. From detecting genetic material in clinical samples to food, crime scene investigation, and so on, this little device is seems to be able to do the job fast. It could revolutionise the way we diagnose or detect all things biological. It is like the 3 min pregnancy test kit for DNA detection and diagnosis. Everyone in the home could well own one!
Junio 12th, 2009 at 4:08
A very useful device that is most helpful in our battle against viruses and diseases.
I think it is a deserving product.
Junio 12th, 2009 at 12:39
A great innovation! I hope this will contribute to our search for answers to challenges posed by the likes of the H1N1 and similar viruses that threaten pandemics in the future.
Junio 12th, 2009 at 14:47
I’ll better Tan Tin Wee’s analogy. Biochip’s invention can be likened to the thermometer. While not everyone needs to have a pregnancy kit at home, most if not all homes in S’pore has at least one thermometer since Sars. Biochip’s invention, if can be priced to attract the mass market would be like the thermometer to confirm unwellness — a god-sent to the health conscious to take ownership and find answers when they feel suddenly unwell. Or, at least they can get the test done themselves and get the professionals to provide the answers. Best wishes for a great win at Barcelona! Majullah Singapura!
Junio 12th, 2009 at 16:33
Providing quality assurance, quality control, and quality assessment to save lives. I can vouch for that!
Junio 15th, 2009 at 6:10
Having considered the other entries, I must say this devise has potentially a very practical and wide-ranging application.
Junio 17th, 2009 at 4:40
I believe this is an amazing invention. I have no idea about the accuracy rate. If it can reach 99% and very reliable, it is no doubt a potential super sale product because of convenience, user friendliness and 15-min quick analysis.
Junio 18th, 2009 at 6:02
This is a great invention, easy to use and fast in response; a devise that will one day be as useful as a thermometer.It is most deserving of an award.