Monsanto and Twistdx begin field trials of rapid diagnostic tests for more efficient delivery of biotech crops

Cambridge, UK, 4th August, 2009 – TwistDx, a developer of point-of-use nucleic acid diagnostics,  announced today that they have made strong progress toward developing rapid, DNA-based field tests with Monsanto Company (NYSE:MON).  Monsanto plans to use the tests to enhance the efficiency with which biotechnology crops are delivered across the globe.

To develop the tests, the companies are using TwistDx’s proprietary Recombinase Polymerase Amplification (RPA) technology. RPA is a novel DNA amplification technology that enables the tests to produce results faster than other DNA detection tests available today, while maintaining a very high level of specificity and sensitivity.

“This collaboration underscores the value of our RPA technology for the development of tests that combine superiority in speed, accuracy, and portability,” said Dr. Niall Armes, CEO, TwistDx. “We believe RPA-based test systems represent an advanced evolution of DNA diagnostics, because they are faster and more accurate than other diagnostic testing systems now on the market. Because our tests can be performed without the need for trained technicians, we believe it will ultimately lead to additional cutting-edge applications in medicine, biosecurity and agriculture.”

Under the collaboration agreement, TwistDx received an undisclosed upfront payment. Additional payments could come in the form of research funding, payment upon reaching specific development milestones, and royalties from net sales resulting from commercialization of any test resulting from the collaboration.

“This collaboration also demonstrates Monsanto’s continuous effort to help bring innovative technologies to the marketplace,” said David Fischhoff, technology strategy and development lead for Monsanto. “TwistDx’s RPA technology represents a step-change in our ability to accurately and rapidly identify biotech products in field settings. Such tests could enhance our ability to develop and support products that help farmers increase yields by producing accurate results with minimum delays.”