Core Insights - Microbix Biosystems Inc. and American Proficiency Institute have launched a pilot proficiency testing program to validate molecular diagnostic assays for detecting the H5N1 strain of the Influenza A virus, which poses a potential pandemic threat [1][2] Group 1: Company Overview - Microbix Biosystems Inc. is a life sciences innovator focused on creating proprietary biological products for human health, with over 100 employees and monthly sales targeting C$ 2.0 million or more [4] - The company manufactures and exports critical ingredients and devices for the global diagnostics industry, including antigens for immunoassays and laboratory quality assessment products (QAPs™) [5] - Microbix's QAPs are sold to clinical lab accreditation organizations, diagnostics companies, and clinical labs, and are available in over 30 countries [5] Group 2: Industry Context - The H5N1 strain of the Influenza A virus is a novel strain that has shown the ability to infect birds, cattle, and humans, raising concerns about its potential to cause a pandemic [1] - The proficiency testing program aims to ensure that clinical laboratories can reliably detect H5N1 Flu using established molecular diagnostic tests, which include both regulator-approved assays and laboratory-developed tests [1] - API's proficiency testing programs are internationally accredited and support over 20,000 clinical laboratories, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of clinical laboratory testing [3]
Microbix & API Ensuring Flu Tests Can Detect H5N1 Strain