About

Argento Diagnostics is a spin out company from the National Physical Laboratory (NPL).

NPL is the UK's National Measurement Institute and a world-leading science and research facilities, developing and applying the most accurate standards, science and technology available.

The Argento journey started in 2006: the technology and underlying science were developed by Rob Porter, Principal Research Scientist, Biophysics & Biodiagnostics Group, through a three-year, NPL Strategic Research Fellowship.

Disruptive Technology Advancing Diagnostics

Argento is a novel measurement technology with multiple diverse applications. Point of Care, or more generally Point of Sampling, tests have been in use for ~20 years. In all but the field of glucose monitoring for diabetics, these have been limited to either:

  • simple, single parameter semi quantitative tests

  • the loss of true portability with the quantitative procedures requiring relatively bulky test devices utilising mains power supply

The goal for the major testing platform method (immunoassay) was to bring the Laboratory capability into the field.

Argento offers fully quantitative analysis of multiple analytes from a single sample in a truly portable handheld device which adds the benefits of modern mobile phone, WiFi and Bluetooth technology to store and communicate the results of the tests to maximise the impact and efficiency of testing.

 

Technology Fit

The multi-application capability of Argento will see it meeting many of the challenges healthcare and industry is facing:

  • Human healthcare

    • Ageing population

    • Devolved, remote healthcare

    • Triage and emergency testing In Hospital

  • Veterinary medicine

    • DIVA tests (Vaccine versus Field challenge)

    • Border inspections of live animals

    • Field tests

The ability to provide rapid, laboratory grade sensitivity and specificity, from a handheld device has many potentially huge benefits in fields not previously able to make use of field technology such as CBRN threats, be this at the airport, ferry port, or even in the battlefield. The low power requirement, multiparameter detection and communication capability is ideal for use in these challenging situations.

Business Model

Argento's business model is based upon the development of the technology with progressive and innovative partners that lead or seek to lead the supply of innovative commercially successful technology in specific market sectors.

Argento will look to enter into exclusive licensing and supply agreements that provide the company's partners with that distinct commercial and technical advantage.