VolitionRx (NYSE AMERICAN: VNRX) has announced the filing of a strategic patent application covering the use of its proprietary Nu.Q technology in triaging and monitoring patients who are suspected of having contracted the Ebola virus.
In a statement, Dr. Jake Micallef, CSO of VolitionRx, commented, “This filing yet again shows the breadth of utility of our technology: it claims the potential use of Volition’s existing Nu.Q NETs test for Ebola. The Nu.Q NETs test quantifies circulating nucleosomes and Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) as early indicators of hyper-inflammation leading to septic shock and early mortality. Our existing patented product portfolio includes the CE-Marked automated Nu.Q NETs assay for use in centralized laboratories, in addition to the recently announced capillary blood finger-prick lateral flow detection (LFT). The LFT could offer an unprecedented bedside triage solution for severe filovirus outbreaks, creating a compelling pathway into underserved, resource constrained countries, where laboratory infrastructure may be weak or non-existent.”
Dr. Micallef added, “While existing Ebola diagnostics focus entirely on identifying the presence of the virus, Volition’s technology focuses on the host’s dysregulated immune response. The Nu.Q NETs test measures H3.1 nucleosomes, which serve as an independent predictor of organ failure and mortality in patients with sepsis and COVID-19. Similarly, identification of elevated NETs levels prior to clinical deterioration may help field medics prevent disease spread and provide earlier, more effective treatment for Ebola-infected patients.”
