TwistDx

TwistDx - A revolution in DNA Amplification

TwistDx’s proprietary technology, RPA (Recombinase Polymerase Amplification), represents a complete revolution in DNA amplification.

It combines superiority in speed, portability and accessibility with exquisite sensitivity and specificity compared to other diagnostic testing systems now on the market.

It can be used in nearly any setting, eliminating the need for a trained technician or laboratory environment. It is ideally suited to research, field use and point of care research applications.

TwistDx products are not only portable, robust and simple to use, but also enable real time molecular diagnostics to reach unparallelled levels of speed, sensitivity and specificity.

The RPA technology can be broadly used as an alternative to PCR, with the benefits of

  • Extraordinary speed
  • Simplicity of use
  • Sample type tolerance
  • Low equipment burden

 

Link to 'The RPA Cycle' PDF How Does It Work?

TwistDx’s RPA process employs enzymes, known as recombinases, which are capable of pairing oligonucleotide primers with homologous sequence in duplex DNA.

Through this method, DNA synthesis is directed to defined points in a sample containing DNA. If the target sequence is present, DNA amplification is initiated.

No other sample manipulation such as thermal or chemical melting is required.

The reaction progresses rapidly and results in specific DNA amplification from just a few target copies to detectable levels typically within 5 - 10 minutes.

The entire reaction system is routinely stable at ambient temperatures and can be transported safely without refrigeration.

It is simple to use RPA to replace PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) in a variety of laboratory and point of care applications and end-users can design their own ultra-sensitive assays. 

 

The TwistDx Products

The core TwistAmp™ amplification ‘engine’ is utilised in a number of different formulations that are tailored for different applications and detection modes. For more specific information click on the kits below (to take you through to the specific product page)

TwistAmp™ Basic

TwistAmp™ exo

TwistAmp™ nfo

TwistAmp™ Exo RT

 

Why Should I Choose RPA? 

Specific benefits of the RPA technology include the following:

  • Temperature - Operates at low, constant temperatures and does not require the use of thermocyclers. (Optimal temperature 37°C)
  • Sample Type - Has been shown to function directly on crude samples from a number of sources (all without any requirement for nucleic acid purification) including:
  1. Blood samples
  2. Nasal swabs
  3. Saliva
  • Speed - Capable of amplifying a few molecules to detectable levels in 5 - 10 minutes, with complete assays taking only 15 - 20 minutes.
  • Sensitivity - Can detect single copies of DNA and tens of copies of RNA (or less).
  • Specificity - So specific that it can operate easily to single molecule levels in the presence of hundreds of nanograms of unrelated complex genomic DNA.
  • Broad Applicability - RPA can be readily applied to any DNA or RNA target.
  • Simultaneous Multiple Target Detection - Several different potential targets may be detected with a single RPA test as multiple detection primers can be combined in one tube.
  • Low Upfront Cost Burden - Minimal or no device requirements mean that a broad range of end users can operate our products
  • Stabilised Format - The reaction system is provided in a stabilised dried format which may permit transportation and limited storage without refrigeration
  • Multiple Detection Formats - A range of specific formats are available including:
  1. Gel Electrphoresis
  2. Real-time fluorescence measurement
  3. Lateral flow 'sandwich assays'

 

What Could I Use It For?

Research Applications

Clinical Research Applications

Point of Care Testing

Food Testing

Veterinary Fields

Agricultural, excluding plant DNA sequences.

 

TwistAmp™ Kits are supplied for research use only.

 

Product Code Description Pack size Price Add to Cart
TWIE1 TwistAmp™ Basic Kit 96 reactions £240.00
TWIO1 TwistAmp™ exo Kit 96 reactions £240.00
TWIP1 TwistAmp™ nfo Kit 96 reactions £240.00
TWIR1 TwistAmp™ Exo RT 96 reactions £320.00*

*Not currently available for web ordering, please phone 0800 387732 to place your order.

RPA Technology Workshops 2012

Alpha will hold 'Introduction to RPA technology' workshops early in 2012. At these showcase events you can learn how to benefit from RPA technology.

 

 

 

Featured in the Winter edition of Leading Edge, the Alpha Labs Newsletter

Click for more information or to enquire