Enigma Diagnostics has launched its upgraded version of Enigma Field Laboratory (FL) system at the XIth International CBRN Defence Symposium in Shrivenham, UK.

Enigma FL is a fully automated, real-time PCR system designed for in-field testing applications by veterinarians, first responders and military personnel. It combines the speed and sensitivity of real-time PCR with the simplicity needed for field-based tests.

Portable and completely self-contained, every aspect of its operation has been fully automated to provide ultra-rapid, laboratory-standard results when used in the field. The process, from collection of the raw sample (e.g., soil, water, powder, blood) to delivery of an unequivocal end result, can take less than 30 minutes.

The new FL instrument incorporates solid state, multiplexing optics and dye deconvolution algorithms and is launched with freeze dried assays provided by Applied Biosystems. The assay panel will include tests for infectious diseases in livestock (e.g., avian influenza) and tests for biothreat agents (e.g., Anthrax).