Oligonucleotide ligation assay for low-cost targeted SNP detection
Anavasi Diagnostics offers a high-throughput oligonucleotide ligation assay (OLA) for cost-effective, accurate detection of SNPs related to micronutrient metabolism. Ideal for genotyping applications, it offers >97% sensitivity and >98% specificity, with potential for automation.
Overview
Anavasi Diagnostics presents an innovative oligonucleotide ligation assay (OLA) designed for the sensitive and specific detection of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with micronutrient metabolism. Building on proven technology originally developed for HIV mutation detection, this assay offers a high-throughput, low-cost solution for genotyping applications. Key benefits include its high sensitivity and specificity—over 97% and 98% respectively—compared to traditional sequencing methods. This positions the assay as a valuable tool for targeted SNP detection, particularly in the field of personalized medicine and nutrition.
Technical specifications
Key features include:
- High-throughput capability: Adaptation of the OLA for multiple SNPs allows for efficient processing of numerous samples simultaneously.
- Point-of-care potential: Development towards a simplified format for use in various healthcare settings.
- Direct sample processing: Evaluation of direct PCR from cheek swabs without DNA extraction to streamline workflow.
- Automation readiness: Ongoing efforts to automate the assay for faster turnaround and reduced costs.
The assay's design involves PCR primers and OLA probes tailored for SNPs linked to micronutrient metabolism, with considerations for genetic variability and polymorphisms. Analytical sensitivity and specificity are rigorously evaluated using synthetic DNA sequences.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 5, the oligonucleotide ligation assay is undergoing validation in controlled laboratory settings with mock and patient specimens. Future steps focus on refining test automation, evaluating cost-effectiveness, and enhancing procedural efficiency to move towards commercial deployment.
About Anavasi Diagnostics
Anavasi Diagnostics is a Redmond, Washington-based medical technology company founded in 2020 that develops molecular point-of-care diagnostic solutions. The company’s primary offering is the AscencioDx platform, which includes a compact, rugged, and portable molecular detector paired with easy-to-use test kits. By leveraging sophisticated mechanical and bioengineering, the system is designed to provide highly accurate molecular diagnostic results in approximately 30 minutes, aiming to combine the precision typically found in centralized laboratory testing with the convenience required for point-of-care environments. Anavasi is a cGMP-compliant and ISO 13485-registered manufacturer, with its corporate headquarters and manufacturing facility featuring automated technology for high-volume production. The company was established by a team of science and engineering experts, including Barry Lutz, Bob Atkinson, and Minh Duong, to address the need for faster, more accessible, and cost-effective testing. By decentralizing diagnostic capabilities, Anavasi seeks to improve medical outcomes, particularly in the context of contagious diseases like COVID-19, by enabling healthcare professionals to obtain actionable diagnoses outside of traditional hospital settings. Their work has been supported by organizations such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) through its RADx program, and the company continues to focus on bringing high-quality, efficient molecular testing to a broader market.
delivered to your inbox.