
Revolutionary 5-Minute STI Testing Set to Transform Sexual Health Diagnostics!
2025-06-09
Author: Daniel
A Game-Changer in Sexual Health Testing
In an exciting breakthrough for sexual health diagnostics, Linear is on the verge of launching a groundbreaking low-cost, near-patient diagnostic platform. This innovative technology promises to detect sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from a single sample in an unprecedented 5 minutes—far quicker than any current commercial alternatives.
Backed by Cutting-Edge Research and Funding
Thanks to funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Invention for Innovation program, Linear's ambitious three-year project is set to reach its crucial milestone: real-world testing on clinical samples, paving the way for clinical trials.
Fast and Accurate Detection with EXPAR Technology
Leveraging its Exponential Amplification (EXPAR) technology originally developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, Linear has demonstrated exceptional capabilities in detecting bacterial DNA. This technology can identify STIs like Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis, urinary tract infections, and even viral infections—such as SARS-CoV-2—all in just 5 minutes.
Addressing the Global STI Crisis
With multi-drug-resistant strains of gonorrhea on the rise, rapid STI testing is crucial for halting transmission. The current methods, while user-friendly, struggle to deliver results within the ideal timeframe of 20 minutes. Linear’s groundbreaking device aims to solve this critical issue, allowing patients to receive diagnoses and initiate treatment during a single clinic visit.
Expert Insights on Diagnostic Challenges
Dr. Jean-Louis Duprey, Head of Research and Development at Linear Diagnostics, emphasizes the challenge in balancing rapid results with accuracy. Existing tests often compromise on sensitivity and specificity, while traditional Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests require lengthy laboratory analysis. Linear's near-patient device intends to eliminate this compromise.
Collaborative Efforts to Elevate Patient Care
The Health Research Centre (HRC), in collaboration with Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Newcastle University, will evaluate the new technology. Dr. Jana Suklan, Senior Methodologist at the HRC, highlights their goal: pinpointing how this innovative platform can enhance patient care through comprehensive research with healthcare professionals and patients alike.
A Commitment to Cutting-Edge Innovation
John Tyson, Head of the North East Innovation Lab, expresses excitement about the collaboration, affirming their commitment to supporting this pioneering test. With access to a wide array of clinical samples and NHS testing performance, the lab is dedicated to generating the evidence needed to bring this cutting-edge technology into mainstream healthcare.
The Future of STI Testing is Here!
As Linear prepares to finalize the design of its cartridge and reader, the health community eagerly anticipates the transformational impact of this rapid testing technology. The future of STI diagnostics is not just promising—it's right around the corner!