Eppendorf and Singapore-based Vela Diagnostics (VelaDx) have teamed up to develop an in vitro diagnostic RNA/DNA extraction platform that combines Eppendorf’s pipetting and liquid handling technology with VelaDx’s IVD technologies and workflow expertise. The resulting Sentosa SX platform is based on Eppendorf’s epMotion automated pipetting system, customized using Vela’s diagnostic workflow and features. The platform is capable of setting up and simultaneously carrying out four different tests per run. Vela says the Sentosa workflow systems and test kits will be launched in certain Asian and European markets before the end of 2012, while regulatory submissions are being filed in the U.S.

“Our collaboration merges an already robust epMotion with revolutionary system enhancements,” comments VelaDx CEO Michael Tillmann. “The new customized hardware and software on the Sentosa SX system will enhance workflow efficiency in laboratories and improve sample traceability.”

The Sentosa SX101 works in combination with Qiagen’s Rotor-Gene Q real-time PCR system to automate extraction, PCR setup, amplification, and detection. Vela has already developed related supermagnetic bead-based nucleic acid extraction kits for use with the platform. The Sentosa SX Virus Total Nucleic Acid Kits is designed for purifying viral nucleic acids from nasal swabs. The Sentosa SX Bacteria gDNA Kits enable the purification of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria genomic DNA from nasal swab and sputum samples.

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