Medical cell technology company Cytovale is set to conduct a pilot study of its rapid diagnostic test for sepsis in patients with suspected SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory infections. The study is being carried out with support from the U.S. Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA).
BARDA, which is an office within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is contributing $3.83 million out of the $5.9 million needed for validation and advanced research of Cytovale's rapid sepsis diagnostic system, including the COVID-19 pilot study, and Cytovale is footing the bill for the remainder.
The pilot study is being carried out in partnership with healthcare facilities in Louisiana, which has been hit hard in the coronavirus pandemic. The system uses high-speed imaging, machine learning, and microfluidics to diagnose sepsis in fewer than 10 minutes, according to the company. Rapid testing is crucial for helping to identify serious infections that can result in organ failure and death.
