Perth Firms Partner for Faster Disease Detection Technology

This new partnership aims to build advanced tools for detecting diseases faster than before, helping to protect Australia's food and health.
By Newsroom | Business, Technology |

Two Perth-based biotechnology firms, Avicena Systems and Syngenis Laboratories, have entered a partnership to develop systems for the rapid detection of dangerous biological threats. This collaboration aims to build advanced pathogen identification tools capable of addressing emerging infectious diseases across agriculture, food supply chains, and human health.

Perth biotech duo Avicena, Syngenis forge biosecurity shield - 1

The initiative seeks to create a robust biosecurity shield by combining Avicena's automated, large-scale testing capabilities with Syngenis's expertise in molecular diagnostics. The overarching goal is to detect and contain infectious disease outbreaks swiftly, potentially positioning Australia as a leader in global biosecurity infrastructure. The companies indicate their ambitions extend beyond national borders.

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Scalable Detection for Multiple Sectors

Avicena Systems focuses on developing 'fast, scalable diagnostics' for routine and emergency health screenings. Their technology is presented as suitable for 'large-scale screening across human, animal, and environmental health'. The 'Avicena Sentinel' instruments are designed for rapid, scalable outbreak detection and feature 'Smart Stockpiling' capabilities. These instruments are reportedly available in configurations for research, environmental surveillance, animal health, and food safety testing. The 'Avicena Seguro' product is designated for animal health and research use only.

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Syngenis's Foundational Strengths

Syngenis Laboratories operates on 'three reinforcing pillars: manufacturing, discovery and diagnostics'. Its manufacturing capacity supports applications in diagnostics, gene therapy, CRISPR, and RNA therapeutics. While Syngenis operates Australia's sole commercial oligonucleotide manufacturing laboratory in Perth, its current output is 'research grade'. However, the company states that this is 'all about to change', suggesting an expansion towards clinical-grade production. The personnel involved in Syngenis are described as distinct from typical figures in early-stage laboratory companies.

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Broader Context: AI and Future Medicine

Recent reports indicate Syngenis Laboratories is also actively integrating artificial intelligence into its operations, with a focus on drug discovery. The company has developed an 'AI-powered discovery platform' named 'Syngenis Discovery' to accelerate research. This move places Syngenis within the broader trend of Australia's biotechnology sector colliding with advancements in AI. Professor Rakesh Veedu, Founder and CTO of Syngenis, is frequently mentioned in connection with these developments. Syngenis's work in manufacturing oligonucleotides, even at the research grade, underpins its diagnostic and therapeutic pursuits.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the main goal of the partnership between Avicena Systems and Syngenis Laboratories?
The two Perth companies are working together to create new systems that can quickly find dangerous biological threats. This technology will help detect diseases in areas like agriculture, food, and human health.
Q: How will Avicena Systems and Syngenis Laboratories achieve their goal?
Avicena Systems will bring its ability to test many samples quickly, while Syngenis Laboratories will use its knowledge of molecular diagnostics. Together, they plan to build tools for fast and large-scale outbreak detection.
Q: What kind of technology is Avicena Systems developing?
Avicena Systems is creating 'fast, scalable diagnostics' called 'Avicena Sentinel' instruments. These are designed for quick detection of outbreaks and can be used for research, environmental checks, animal health, and food safety.
Q: What is Syngenis Laboratories' role in the partnership?
Syngenis Laboratories has expertise in molecular diagnostics and manufacturing. They can make materials for diagnostics and therapies, and are also developing an AI platform to speed up research and drug discovery.
Q: Why is this partnership important for Australia?
By creating advanced biosecurity tools, this collaboration aims to help Australia detect and stop disease outbreaks quickly. It could also help Australia become a leader in global biosecurity technology.