Pune-based molecular diagnostics company, Mylab Discovery Solutions has launched ‘Compact XL’ - India’s first fully-automated Sample-to-PCR-ready system for molecular diagnostics.

The machine is designed to automate lab operations from sample handling to RT-PCR ready tube preparation, and do these operations in one single compact benchtop machine.

Compact XL is a cartridge-based machine and can test multiple samples concurrently. Compact XL can be used for a wide range of RNA/DNA-based tests including Covid-19 RT-PCR tests. The machine can take a variety of sample types such as plasma, tissue, sputum and swab.

Speaking about the benefits of this 100% indigenously developed machine, Hasmukh Rawal, MD, Mylab Discovery Solutions said, “To make India self reliant in advanced diagnostics, Compact XL is our most ambitious project to date. Compact XL will replace the need of 700 sq ft of clean room lab with a 4x3 benchtop machine and reduce the need of 3-4 expert technicians to just one, thus saving operational costs for labs. From patients’ perspective, automated processes will eliminate errors and improve accuracy, for example, the robotic movements in machine are precise to the tune of hundred-thousandths of a ml when handling liquids”

Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India (SII), who unveiled the machine, said that “Scientific and technological breakthroughs are driving our fight against Covid-19. This revolutionary product, with multiple patents already filed, will be a giant leap in making testing accessible. It will eliminate traditional barriers to the adoption of molecular diagnostics at labs and address any potential demand-supply gaps of highly skilled technicians for testing.”

Abhijeet Pawar, Chairman, AP Globale, said that “An important lesson Covid has taught us to be self reliant. Our focus is to drive social change through innovation. The work at Mylab goes a long way in making diagnostics affordable and making India Atmnirbhar in testing. Compact XL is the next step in the same direction.”

The Compact XL is one of its own kind platforms, with each component developed and designed in India. It has flexibility to test multiple parameters and can multiple samples at the same time. It will enable many small labs to expand their offering portfolio of advanced tests. Automated barcode reading, auto-fed protocol, self sanitization and LIMS connectivity makes Compact XL, as a complete walk-away system with low maintenance. Compact XL will be available for pre-ordering starting 13 July 2020.