NEW YORK (360Dx) – Airborne pathogen-based screening firm Breathtec today announced an alliance and research agreement with ZeptoMetrix, aimed at developing a portable detection device for the Zika virus.
The firm also announced management changes, including a new president.
The deal with ZeptoMetrix includes plans to identify biomarkers associated with Zika, and longer term, the development of a portable device to screen individuals with the virus at international points of entry, it said.
Financial and other terms of the deal were not disclosed.
"Our extensive experience and expertise in propagation and purification of infectious disease cultures will be a tremendous asset in this relationship," ZeptoMetrix President and CEO Gregory Chiklis said in a statement.
Breathtec also said that the development of its field asymmetric ion mobility spectrometer technology is progressing with testing of its V2 prototype nearing completion. The system has been updated for increased sensitivity and resolution, along with refinements to its circuit design, ionization source, and square wave generation.
Also, Breathec announced the resignation of Kal Malhi as president and director to pursue other interests. CEO, Guy LaTorre will additionally take on the position of president. Alfred Wong was also appointed Breathtec's vice president of corporate development and communications.