Lab21 obtains new patents for hepatitis C technology

Lab21 has extended its patents on a key technology offering in the field of hepatitis C therapy research.

The Cambridge-based science company has secured a new patent in Europe and the US for technology which assists in the genotypic identification of drug-resistant mutations in the four major global genotypes, facilitating monitoring of individual patients.

In addition, the firm has also been able to obtain a patent for its SelahDOTS fluorescent nanoparticles, which can be utilised in immunodiagnostics, point-of-care biomarker analysis and in-vivo imaging.

Graham Mullis, chief executive officer of Lab21, said the strengthening of the company's intellectual property portfolio is essential to its future growth.

He explained: "Patents such as these will ensure … we are able to provide our customers with the most advanced products and services in the markets we choose to serve."

In October 2010, Lab21 announced the appointment of healthcare and biotechnology industry veteran Susan Lowther as its new chief financial officer.