Non-staining fluorescent system for rapid plaque visualization

Technology
In development
Company

Cexal Ltd introduces a non-staining oral rinse with biofilm-specific probes for rapid and clear plaque visualization within five minutes using a simple blue light. This innovative solution offers high specificity without staining teeth and gums, making it ideal for home use.

Overview

Cexal Ltd presents an innovative non-staining fluorescent system designed for rapid plaque visualization. This cutting-edge oral rinse utilizes biofilm-specific probes that remain invisible under normal light but emit a bright signal upon binding to dental plaque. Unlike traditional dyes that stain indiscriminately, this system provides a clear ON/OFF response, allowing consumers to visualize plaque clearly within just five minutes using an affordable LED clip-on light source. The technology is scalable and suitable for home use, offering an immediate solution for consumers and potential for professional applications.

Technical specifications

Key features:

  • Biofilm-specific probes ensure high specificity with minimal background staining
  • Clear ON/OFF signal response with a simple blue light
  • Scalable for home use with a low-cost LED clip-on light
  • Compatible with existing dyes to enhance accuracy and reliability
  • Fast visualization within five minutes

The system builds on extensive biofilm research validated in UK National Biofilm Innovation Centre projects, demonstrating effective direct microbial detection in biofilms. The probes are formulated for rapid binding, providing sharp contrast and easy wash-off behavior.

Technology readiness level

This technology is at TRL 5, indicating that it has been validated in a lab environment. The development follows a phased approach, including lab validation, safety assessments, consumer pilot studies, and scaling for industrial use. Future phases will ensure biocompatibility, stability, and consumer usability, paving the way for professional application and long-term innovation.


About Cexal Ltd

CEXAL LTD is a Scottish-based biotech company specializing in rapid, point-of-need molecular diagnostics. The company has developed a proprietary biosensor technology designed to detect biomarkers and bacteria in under 30 minutes. This technology is distinguished by its simplicity, utilizing only two active components and requiring no external equipment or readers. It is designed for direct use on clinical or environmental samples, providing results comparable to traditional laboratory methods. The company's portfolio includes the FluoCDx platform for bacterial phenotyping, the RapidPath platform for genotyping, the Nanosensr platform for small-molecule testing, and the StreamTube sampling device for pre-enrichment and concentration. By integrating molecular biology and sensor engineering, CEXAL LTD aims to provide cost-effective diagnostic solutions that surpass current industry standards for speed and accessibility. The technology supports critical applications in microbial testing, offering a streamlined workflow that eliminates the need for complex laboratory infrastructure, making it suitable for field or point-of-care environments. Through these innovations, the company addresses the need for efficient bacterial detection and analysis across various diagnostic contexts.

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