Instant DNA test technology introduced

A new DNAScan technology which provides a state-of-the-art system for fast, easy and accurate DNA profiling has been introduced onto the Ghanaian market by ITSI-Biosciences, a US-based bio-analytical solutions firm.

The DNAScan technology, which is the first to be operated in West Africa, takes less than an hour and half to generate analysis, defying the normal number of days one has to wait to get a DNAScan result.

Other advantages of this new DNA scan machine is that it saves money and time as it generates profiles from up to five high content DNA chips or four low content DNA chip samples in 87 minutes and 105 minutes respectively.

Richard I. Samiari, president and chief scientific officer, ITSI, who expressed his delight at the launch of the machine, said DNA tests for paternity, crime investigations, identifications of remains and other issues can now be completed domestically in less than 90 minutes.

He said the machine works perfectly in the region’s climate conditions because the cassettes can be stored at room temperature for up to six months, eliminating the need for freezers and refrigerators.

“The DNA swab seals and locks into the DNAScan bio chip set cassettes to eliminate cross-contamination and sample mix-up,” he added.

Robert P. Jackson, US ambassador to Ghana, in his remarks mentioned that the introduction of the DNAScan was the direct result of last September’s US trade mission to Africa.

He said the US government sees Africa as an important partner that would shape the world’s business environment, hence American companies desire to make a positive impact on the work force, on infrastructure and society.

“Working together, ITSI-Bioscience is now in the position to significantly improve the locally available biometric service,” Ambassador Jackson underscored.

Alhaji Iddi Sumaila, CEO of Green Medical Centre which will be hosting the operations of the machine, expressed his excitement at the partnership between the two organisations.

“I must state that the Rapid DNAScan is the first of its kind in West Africa and we are proud to be associated with its introduction into the sub-region,” he said.