Netscientific PLC said its subsidiary ProAxsis had completed the development and evaluation of an AstraZeneca COVID-19 antibody test with "impressive performance evaluation results”.
Work carried out by Professor Tara Moore of the Ulster University, analysing over 1,100 clinical serology samples, showed the assay delivered “exceptional levels of sensitivity and specificity” of 100% and 99.3% respectively.
It was able to detect immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in blood samples from previously infected and vaccinated people and also picked up IgG from those known to be infected by the different SARS-CoV-2 variants (Alpha, Delta and Omicron).
"The successful completion of this high-profile exercise marks another significant milestone in the implementation of ProAxsis' growth strategy,” said Netscientific chairman, John Clarkson.
“After signing the global licence agreement with AstraZeneca, it has been a period of hard work, with rigorous testing, development and validation by the highly skilled ProAxsis team, complemented by the excellent work of Professor Tara Moore.
“By any standards, this is an excellent result. This highly sensitive and specific test provides a significant enhancement to the company's commercial offering; further extending product range and reinforcing the continued international expansion.
“This fits well with NetScientific's trans-Atlantic bridges and global strategic plans."
The assay has been submitted for a CE Mark, which represents formal European sign-off for the new technology.