Biotangents Ltd - Overview
Biotangents combine machine learning bioinformatics, customisable biology workflows and advanced microfluidics to deliver the next generation of veterinary diagnostics for point of care use. The company aim to enhance the sustainability of livestock farming and enable vets and farmers to take rapid action to treat and prevent disease.
Biotangents is a veterinary diagnostics company open to new opportunities to improve pathogen detection.
Midlothian Science Zone talks with a representative of Biotangents Ltd
Biotangents has developed Moduleic Sensing™, a proprietary molecular diagnostic technology that detects specific nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) sequences characteristic of a given disease, bringing laboratory quality molecular diagnostics to the farm or vet clinic in a simple to use, automated format.
The company has been awarded seed funding from CIEL (Centre for Innovation Excellence in Livestock) to work with researchers at the Roslin Institute as part of the development of an in-clinic and on-farm diagnostic for Mastitis.
What is the main purpose of Biotangents?
Biotangents is harnessing their expertise in molecular technology to create diagnostic solutions for livestock which can be utilised on-farm/in-clinic to improve welfare, profitability and sustainability.
The company is designing the next generation of molecular diagnostics based on Moduleic Sensing™, a highly configurable proprietary platform for diagnostic technology in the lab, veterinary clinic and on the farm.
We are a strong team of ten, including four PhD-qualified scientists, supported by an internationally renowned board.
What does the future hold?
Biotangents is currently preparing for the launch of our first commercial product in March 2021- AmpliSpec™ LAB BVD (Bovine Viral Diarrhoea).
BVD is a widespread viral disease of cattle causing severe reproductive and production losses. It is a global problem estimated to cost the agricultural industry £9.2bn p.a., with losses of up to £470 per animal in the UK. High volume laboratory testing is being driven by national disease control schemes. AmpliSpec™ LAB BVD does not require expensive equipment and has a simpler and faster workflow than existing methods, allowing labs to improve efficiency and provide results more quickly to their customers.
Following this, our R&D resource will be focused on the development of our on-farm/in-clinic diagnostic solution which will allow veterinary surgeons and farmers to differentiate between the most common mastitis pathogens within 3 hours. Mastitis is the costliest infectious disease of adult dairy cattle, costing £14-23bn p.a. globally. It reduces milk quality and yield, costing £70-250 per animal per year.
In addition to all of our exciting innovations, we’re currently preparing for our next round of investment which is due to close in Q2 2021.
Why did Biotangents choose to locate to a science park?
Our location within Midlothian Science Zone, on Pentlands Science Park, affords us proximity to global specialists in animal health research, such as our neighbours at Moredun Research Institute who are internationally recognised for their expertise in the sector.
This has been instrumental in accessing research, building relationships and creating partnerships across the animal health industry which raise brand awareness of Biotangents.
What are the benefits of 'park' environment?
Being part of the park community offers many benefits including, for example, a canteen, access to meeting facilities with high quality equipment, strong security and access to shared equipment.
The reception area and team at Pentlands Science Park is of particularly advantage. This creates a good impression for visitors, particularly in the early stages of our company foundation.
What do you enjoy most about being based in Midlothian?
Working in Midlothian offers an excellent work life balance for our employees located across central Scotland and has the best of both worlds in terms of city and rural life. The view from the park to the Pentlands is spectacular.
For further information, please contact:
Biotangents Limited
Douglas House
Pentlands Science Park
Bush Loan
Penicuik
Midlothian, EH26 0PL
e: info@biotangents.co.uk
t: +44 (0)131 514 0871