BD Biosciences Introduces CD4 Testing Product That Does Not Require Refrigeration

New dried reagent developed in collaboration with ReaMetrix will broaden access to CD4 monitoring in developing countries

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BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company)

Jul 19, 2010, 09:00 ET

SAN JOSE, Calif., July 19 /PRNewswire/ -- BD Biosciences, a segment of BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company), today announced the creation of new dried reagents developed through a collaboration with ReaMetrix, a private biotechnology company based in Bangalore, India. The new reagents, expected to be available in 2011, are developed for the BD FACSCount™ Flow Cytometry System, which is recognized as the system of choice for CD4 monitoring in global HIV/AIDS treatment programs because of its simplicity, robust performance and reliability.

"A key strategic driver behind the BD Global Health initiative focuses on expanding access to diagnostic products customized for use in developing settings," said Bill Rhodes, President, BD Biosciences. "The ReaMetrix dried reagent helps us achieve this strategic objective because it does not require refrigeration, an amenity often unavailable in the developing world. We are proud of our collaboration with ReaMetrix, which has brought forth an innovative product that expands access to CD4 testing in many remote, resource-limited locations."

CD4 testing assesses a patient's immune system and guides clinicians in the proper administration of anti-HIV therapies. Many countries, however, lack the necessary infrastructure to ensure the timely and reliable testing of patients with HIV/AIDS.

Difficulties in transporting, storing and using temperature-sensitive products and blood samples pose additional barriers to adequate, appropriate and cost-effective treatment in resource-limited settings. The new dried-down process expands access to CD4 testing in developing countries by eliminating the need for reagent refrigeration during shipment and storage.

"At ReaMetrix, we are excited that our strategic collaboration with BD will result in the introduction of a product that will bring the benefits of CD4 monitoring to a much broader population in developing nations," said ReaMetrix Chief Executive Officer Bala S. Manian, Ph.D. "The new dried reagent expands the reach of the BD FACSCount System, already the preeminent CD4 testing system in resource-limited countries. By working together with BD, we are making new progress in making global health affordable and accessible."

About BD

BD is a leading global medical technology company that develops, manufactures and sells medical devices, instrument systems and reagents. The Company is dedicated to improving people's health throughout the world. BD is focused on improving drug delivery, enhancing the quality and speed of diagnosing infectious diseases and cancers, and advancing research, discovery and production of new drugs and vaccines. BD's capabilities are instrumental in combating many of the world's most pressing diseases. Founded in 1897 and headquartered in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, BD employs approximately 29,000 associates in more than 50 countries throughout the world. The Company serves healthcare institutions, life science researchers, clinical laboratories, the pharmaceutical industry and the general public. For more information, please visit www.bd.com.