Molecular diagnostics firm Cepheid has entered into a three year and non-exclusive agreement with Novacyt to distribute a complete Human Papillomavirus (HPV) diagnostic system in Latin America.
Under the deal, Cepheid and its distributor partners will distribute Novacyt’s NOVAprep vial, media and cervical sample collection device to use along with its Xpert HPV assay to test for high risk HPV infection, either as a primary cervical cancer screen test or as a reflex test to cytology.
Novaprep LBC flexible solution combined with Xpert platform allows a wide range of laboratories to provide a molecular HPV service.
According to Novacyt, the data demonstrated that Novacyt’s NOVAprep technology platform and Cepheid’s Xpert HPV test produced accurate results in comparison to Roche cobas HPV results from the same specimens.
Novacyt Gropu CEO Graham Mullis said: “HPV testing is in a multi-billion dollar market. The combination of NOVAprep’s proprietary sample collection and preparation capability together with Cepheid’s diagnostic system positions us well for growth in Latin America.
“Our unique approach will provide significant benefits to patient risk stratification and we look forward to working with Cepheid in this new market and region for Novacyt.”
Novacyt produces a range of oncology and infectious disease diagnostic products. Its reagents are used in oncology, microbiology, haematology and serology markets.
In September, Danaher agreed to acquire Cepheid for about $4bn, which is engaged in the development, manufacturing and marketing of molecular systems and tests.