General Atomics Acquires Assets of Xagenic, Inc.
General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems Group (GA-EMS) announced today that it has acquired certain assets of Xagenic, Inc., a Toronto, Canada-based developer of molecular diagnostic systems. The assets will be integrated into the new GA-EMS bio-sensor technology development operation located in Rancho Bernardo, California, to support the organization’s growth initiatives related to microelectronics, advanced sensors, and signal processing technologies for defense applications. In addition, the former chief of research and development, Dr. Graham Jack, has joined GA-EMS to lead new bio-sensor technology development activities.
“The innovations Xagenic made in the design of ultrasensitive microelectronics and nano-sensors are highly complementary to our core strengths in developing and manufacturing complex, specialized electronic systems,” stated Scott Forney, president of GA-EMS. “We look forward to bringing the expertise and assets to GA-EMS as we expand our capabilities to help meet the challenge of miniaturizing and ruggedizing electronics for field deployable systems.”
Xagenic developed a diagnostic system, which uses a unique, customizable cartridge containing a proprietary sensor chip to enable rapid, lab-quality molecular diagnostics for disease detection at the point of service. The diagnostic technology is completely automated within a single-use disposable cartridge and involves nanostructured microelectrode sensors allowing direct electrochemical analysis of the prepared sample on the cartridge. By fully automating steps that are typically performed by a laboratory technician, the system enables testing in settings where molecular methods might not be possible.
“In addition to the innovative bio-sensor technology, this acquisition positions us to self-perform sophisticated manufacturing operations that will speed the development and delivery of a variety of cartridges,” continued Rolf Ziesing, vice president of Programs at GA-EMS. “We anticipate a growing need for simple-to-use, field-deployable diagnostic capabilities, and look forward to providing these sophisticated microelectronic bio-sensor detection platforms to support national security.”
