Laboratory Corp of America Holdings patented a method for rapid detection of microorganisms in samples without culturing, using a modified bacteriophage with an indicator gene. The gene encodes a luciferase protein expressed during replication, aiding in specific microorganism targeting. The method involves incubation and detection steps. GlobalData’s report on Laboratory Corp of America Holdings gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Laboratory Corp of America Holdings, Molecular diagnosis biomarkers was a key innovation area identified from patents. Laboratory Corp of America Holdings's grant share as of May 2024 was 36%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Rapid detection of microorganisms using modified bacteriophage

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: Laboratory Corp of America Holdings

A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US12006531B2) discloses a method for detecting a specific bacterium in a sample using genetically engineered bacteriophages. The method involves incubating the bacterium with bacteriophages that have an indicator gene encoding a luciferase protein inserted into their late gene region. The luciferase protein is expressed during bacteriophage replication, and its detection indicates the presence of the target bacterium in the sample. This innovative approach eliminates the need for culturing bacteria for enrichment, streamlining the detection process.

Furthermore, the method includes steps such as isolating the target bacterium from other components in the sample before incubation with the engineered bacteriophages. This isolation can be achieved through various techniques, including binding the bacterium to a specific antibody or concentrating it on a bacteriological filter. By utilizing a viral capsid promoter to drive luciferase expression and ensuring that the luciferase protein is not incorporated into the bacteriophage structure, the method offers a reliable and efficient means of detecting bacteria like E. coli. With the potential to revolutionize bacterial detection in various fields, this patented method showcases the power of genetic engineering in enhancing diagnostic capabilities.

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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.