Amongst House of BioHealth’s talents is one of the fastest growing laboratory of Siemens Healthineers : Fast Track Diagnostics. In this article, we will learn more about who they are, what they specialize in and why they choose HoBH as their headquarters.
Could you introduce us to your company?
Our company was established on December 26 in by Laboratoires Réunis in Junglinster. Subsequently, we relocated to the House of Biohealth in 2015.
We are specialized in the development and production of PCR kits, primarily focusing on the detection of pathogens in the area of infectious diseases. This entails the development and production of tests that can identify viruses, bacteria, and parasites. In total, our product range encompasses around 120 different pathogens. These PCR kits are designed for laboratory use. When a patient falls ill, physicians collect a sample from the patient, which is then tested using our kits. This diagnostic process helps determine the specific type of pathogen responsible for the infection.
What sector is your research primarily focused on?
Broadly speaking, our research centers on molecular diagnostics, encompassing a wide range of areas, including respiratory infections, gastrointestinal illnesses, and essentially any domain related to viruses, bacteria, or pathogens.
What are your primary products, and are there specific research areas you focus on?
We can highlight two main products in our portfolio. During the pandemic, our flagship product was a diagnostic kit designed for the detection of SARS-CoV-2, which played a crucial role in the large scale testing conducted in Luxembourg, an achievement that fills us with pride. The other significant product is FTD Respiratory pathogens 21. This is a multiplex test, allowing us to simultaneously detect 21 different pathogens. Essentially, with a single sample and test, we can identify up to 21 pathogens. This test is a unique offering in the market, setting us apart from the competition.
What was the most recent invention?
The latest innovation is referred to as our “combo kit” (FTD SARS-CoV-2/FluA/FluB/HRSV), designed for the detection of respiratory infections. This kit combines the screening for various pathogens, including influenza ( Flu A and Flu B), HRSV (Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus, another respiratory virus), and SARS-CoV-2. Given that SARS-CoV-2 can exhibit flu-like symptoms, our customers expressed the need for a solution that allows simultaneous testing for all these pathogens. This product was launched towards the end of the previous year.
What contributions has HoBH made to the advancement of your company?
There are several noteworthy aspects to consider. To begin with, the infrastructure at our disposal here has been instrumental. We have access to fully-equipped laboratories and office spaces, which have not only accommodated our needs since our relocation but have also provided us with the opportunity to expand. The abundance of space has allowed us the flexibility to rent additional rooms when necessary for company meetings or conferences, eliminating the constraint of relying on a single large conference room.
Moreover, there are two significant advantages we have derived from our association with HoBH. Firstly, the strategic location in Luxembourg, specifically in Esch-sur-Alzette, has been highly advantageous. Situated at the crossroads of three countries, it has facilitated the recruitment of a diverse and multinational workforce, greatly enhancing our company’s spirit and culture. This diversity has enriched our team, fostering a dynamic company culture that thrives on the exchange of ideas and perspectives.
Secondly, the proximity to other companies within the same building has proven to be beneficial. While our respective fields may differ, these close connections have provided opportunities for interaction during lunch breaks, chance encounters in the corridors, and participation in various events. It’s worth noting that such interactions have even led to collaborative projects, as exemplified by our successful collaboration with NIH (National Institutes of Health) on the SARS-CoV-2 product.
In summary, HOBH has contributed significantly to our company’s growth and success through its broad, multinational location and the presence of other companies in the same building, fostering an environment of innovation and collaboration.