Multi-year program supports development of disposable molecular diagnostic platforms for point-of-care, field-use, and emergency response settings

 Sapphiros announced it has been awarded a multi-year project agreement through the Rapid Response Partnership Vehicle (RRPV), to advance rapid, portable, connected, molecular diagnostic platforms for detection of biothreats and emerging infectious diseases.

RRPV is a consortium funded by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), part of the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

The agreement includes a 24-month base period to support the continued development of Sapphiros' proprietary molecular diagnostics platform, with a focus on enabling rapid  detection of priority biothreat pathogens  in point-of-care and decentralizedsettings.

The  program is designed to advance disposable molecular testing capabilities for blood-based pathogens that can deliver laboratory-quality results through a simple, automated workflow. To ensure biosafety, the Sapphiros molecular device utilizes a novel, closed blood collection tube that eliminates the risk of blood-borne contamination during sample transfer to the device.

The program leverages Satio's integrated capillary blood collection system to facilitate phlebotomist-free blood collection at the point of need. Satio, has developed a single use collection device equipped with an integrated safety lancet, designed to minimize user handling and biohazard exposure while ensuring consistent sample volumes for reliable testing in emergency response and field settings.

"Our program reflects the urgent need for diagnostic technologies that can move quickly from outbreak recognition to field deployment," said Mark Gladwell, CEO of Sapphiros. "By combining  connected, disposable molecular platform and innovative blood collection approach, we aim to deliver rapid, reliable testing solutions that can support clinicians, public health responders and communities during biological threats and emerging health emergencies."

This funding marks Sapphiros' second agreement with BARDA, following the previously announced agreement to develop an over-the-counter, single use low-cost digital antigen test capable of detecting and differentiating respiratory viruses.

This project has been funded in whole or in part with federal funds from the Department of Health and Human Services; Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR); Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), under Other Transaction Number: 75A50123D00005.