Cepheid Introduces GeneXpert® 16-Site System

Cepheid has introduced the GeneXpert^® 16-Site System at the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Society for Microbiology.

The latest addition to Cepheid's GeneXpert^® family of real-time PCR devices is designed to provide a high-throughput, fully-automated solution to deliver results quickly and efficiently to hospitals and laboratories.

While current molecular methods deliver sensitive, specific and rapid results compared to culture-based approaches, molecular biology labs generally run tests when a sufficient number of samples is reached to justify processing a batch.

Cepheid claims that, batch processing is no longer the only option, as its GeneXpert 16-Site System has the flexibility to run up to 16 different molecular tests simultaneously, with minimal hands-on time.

"Cepheid's GeneXpert technology represents a true paradigm shift in the practical implementation of real-time PCR," said Cepheid CEO John Bishop.

"No longer limited by batch processing protocols and laborious manual procedures, laboratorians can now have access to critical answers when they need them."

"In addition, laboratories will have a unique ability to run the exact same tests on a high through-put main lab system or on a desktop system in a satellite lab."

Cepheid's GeneXpert Systems are designed to combine sample preparation with real time PCR amplification and detection functions for fully integrated and automated nucleic acid analysis.

The system purifies, concentrates, detects and identifies targeted nucleic acid sequences.

The GeneXpert^® 16-Site System is configurable from 4 to16 modules, allowing users to expand their system as demand for assays increase.

Shipments of the GeneXpert 16-Site System are expected to begin in the 4th quarter of 2006.

The system will support the current menu of tests available on the GeneXpert 4-Site System and all GeneXpert tests in the product pipeline.