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CANARY® Biological Detection Technology


CANARY® is a tested and proven method of pathogen threat detection, providing users with an unprecedented level of speed and sensitivity in both commercial and defence applications. Originally developed by MIT, CANARY technology allows the detection of a wide range of pathogens including bacteria, viruses and toxins.

CANARY breaks though the limitations of current laboratory-based biological testing methods allowing detection capabilities to be conducted on-site or at the place of operation. It combines the sensitivity of PCR with the speed of Lateral Flow, allowing users to accurately test for tiny amounts of pathogen in minutes. The method requires very few materials, time, and minimal scientific expertise.

CANARY uses a genetically engineered immune cell called a “biosensor” to identify and bind to a specific target. When a pathogen is found, a reaction starts causing the biosensor to luminesce. By measuring light output from the cell, we can tell if the target biological is present in the sample.

Capable of rapid detection of airborne COVID-19

How does our CANARY® technology detect COVID-19 in the air? Read our white paper to find out.

Click to download

CANARY in the field

CANARY is currently deployed for applications in Biodefense, Food Safety, Agriculture and Emerging disease. Here’s how CANARY can help you:

BIODEFENCE / MAIL SCREENING

EARLY WARNING · HEALTHY EMPLOYEES

  • First line of defence against biological threat.
  • Screening mail & buildings for pathogens keeps your employees safe.
  • Detectable pathogens include: Ricin and Anthrax
FOOD SAFETY

SAVE MONEY · HEALTHY CUSTOMERS · AVOID RECALLS

  • Avoid costly recall that can damage your reputation.
  • Make sure you're not getting pathogens from a supplier.
  • Better monitor your plant hygiene and sanitation.
  • Detectable pathogens include: Listeria
AGRICULTURE

MINIMISE CROP LOSS · SAVE MONEY

  • Know if your plants are sick before they start to show symptoms.
  • Control imports and exports.
  • Reduce pesticides / fungicide use by knowing when to spray.
EMERGING DISEASES

TRACK DISEASES · MONITOR RESPONSE · PROMOTE HEALTH

  • Rapidly detect airborne COVID-19. Learn more
  • Track the spread of new diseases like Zika and Ebola.
  • Monitor quarantine points.
Download the CANARY brochure

 

 

Click here

Key Benefits

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EASE OF USE
No complicated extractions or scientific expertise needed. Once your sample is prepared, tests results can be generated in 3-5 minutes, giving you the timely results you need.

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SENSITIVITY
Imagine the biosensor as a cell covered in light bulbs with a switch. With other technologies, when a single pathogen is present the switch turns on one light bulb. With CANARY, the switch turns on all the light bulbs. This amplification of signal makes CANARY incredibly sensitive.

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SPEED
If a pathogen is present, it only takes seconds for the Biosensor to bind and luminesce, giving you results in under 5 minutes.

CANARY Products
BioFlash Biological Identifier
The biothreat detector provides rapid, biological aerosol collection and identification in a compact unit.
See product
MailGuard System
Offering rapid, biological aerosol collection and identification using forced airflow within a downdraft booth.
See product