GSK Signs Partnership Agreement With Enigma

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Enigma Diagnostics have signed worldwide agreements to develop and supply the first point of care diagnostic influenza tests. It is to identify specific influenza virus strains using its real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology platform – the Enigma ML (Mini Laboratory).

The partnership would enable GSK and Enigma to develop the Enigma ML to deliver fully-automated results from swab samples (in less than 60 minutes) at the point of care, and to the same accuracy standards as reference laboratories.

Enigma ML is anticipated to be launched in early 2011, subject to successful clinical trials and regulatory approval.

Eddie Gray, president of Pharmaceuticals Business, Europe at GSK, said: “This technology is very promising and has the potential to ensure that patients are diagnosed accurately and rapidly and that they receive the most appropriate treatment in a timely manner. It could also play a key part in enabling governments to support critical workers to fulfil their roles during a pandemic as well as facilitate sensitive influenza surveillance – key to the identification of novel strains and optimal utilisation of antiviral medication.”

Under the terms of the agreement, GSK would make a small equity investment in Enigma, an upfront payment, R&D funding and profit sharing on sales. Further payments will be subject to development progress and agreed milestones, said the company.