Boehringer Ingelheim, GNA Biosolutions partners on emergency diagnostics development

The Boehringer and GNA Biosolutions collaboration further emphasises the role of GNA Biosolutions in the rapidly developing field of extra-laboratory diagnostics and extends the application of our Pulse Controlled Amplification (PCA) technology into animal protection

INGELHEIM: Boehringer Ingelheim and GNA Biosolutions recently announced that they have entered into a research collaboration focused on the development of a rapid African swine fever (ASF) diagnostic test. The test would be used in combination with GNA's portable molecular diagnostic platform and is aimed at supporting the fight against the worldwide spread of this deadly disease.

ASF is a devastating viral infection of swine causing severe clinical disease and high mortality. The disease cannot be treated and currently, no effective vaccines are available. ASF does not affect humans.

It is currently unclear how far ASF will spread, jeopardising many countries’ pig trade and supplies. Due to ASF outbreaks, more than 600,000 pigs were culled within the past few months in China alone.

“We are delighted to enter this collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, a global leader in animal health. This collaboration further emphasises the role of GNA Biosolutions in the rapidly developing field of extra-laboratory diagnostics and extends the application of our Pulse Controlled Amplification (PCA) technology into animal protection,” said GNA Biosolutions co-founder and Managing Director, Dr Lars Ullerich.

“Together with GNA, we are striving to develop holistic solutions for veterinarians, farmers and the food producing industry. The targeted platform will allow for faster decision making based on more comprehensive diagnostic data,” shared the Global Head of Diagnostics & Monitoring Animal Health at Boehringer Ingelheim, Rolf-Dieter Günther.

Dr Alain Wille, Head of Global Business Unit Swine at Boehringer Ingelheim, echoed his views,“This partnership represents another example of our focus on prevention and our continuous effort to control swine diseases.”

Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.

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