Please select a technology to find out more about our biodefense services:
Protocol Development
In the Biodefense arena, CBI has made a name for itself as a provider of cutting edge science and technology to government agencies and the military over the past years. CBI conducts research aimed at developing new and improved medical tools against potential bioterrorism agents. CBI has greatly accelerated its biodefense program with new initiatives to catalyze development of vaccines, therapies and diagnostic tests.
Strong program management and quality science have been CBI’s hallmark and driving force behind our success and rapid expansion into the Biodefense business sector. CBI has developed a strong program in microbial genomics of pathogenic organisms which has culminated with an extensive catalog of molecular diagnostic capabilities. Novel science has driven this program and enabled CBI to provide the answers to some of the most difficult problems facing detection of bioterrorist agents. This is illustrated by CBI’s Mass Spec Analysis program for the study of biowarfare CB agents including bacteria and toxins. CBI’s renowned toxin laboratory contains an extensive library of toxin data.
CBI has a long history of service to government agencies and has provided program management for long-term contracts. CBI has formed research CRADAs with numerous US government research facilities and agencies. This experience and our record of outstanding technical service have leveraged CBI into the position as a leader in the industry.
CBI operates in a secure environment with staff holding security clearances and credentials.
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Project Management
Commonwealth Biotechnologies, Inc. (CBI) is the most comprehensive pre-clinical contract service organization in the market today. We offer cutting-edge expertise and a complete array of the most current analytical and synthetic chemistries and biophysical technologies, some of which are not available from any other source. Our broad technology base allows CBI to offer true customized project design and full project management support. Every project will have a single point of contact at CBI...YOUR PROJECT MANAGER. We work with you to provide a "Shared Solutions" approach in support of your specific needs.
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Pathogen Detection
CBI uses 16s Ribosomal DNA sequence analysis for bacterial identification. This technology is the most accurate and fastest means of identification of bacteria. CBI uses proprietary primers to amplify sequences within the 16s Ribosaml gene and then BLASTs the data against private, commercial and public databases for a comparative sequence analysis. Identifcation occurs when the query sequences matches the sequence in the database. CBI offers a state of the art microbiology facility to isolate pure colonies for analysis. Alternatively, you can send us a pure isolate and CBI will perform the requisite DNA extraction, amplification of the 16S rRNA gene, sequencing and comparison. Results for this service have a typical 3-5 day turnaround time depending on the nature of the study. DNA can typically be isolated from viable, damaged, and non-viable cells.
Sample identification reports consist of the comparative analysis obtained from the data base search, in order of decreasing genetic distance. The sample id is included in the report. A phylogenetic tree analysis, can be included along with the results showing closest near neighbors. Raw sequence data, sequence line-ups and blast search results will also be part of the report. Reports can be made to suit upon request.
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The same technology listed above can also be used to obtain comparative DNA sequence data for identification of Fungi. Identifications of both yeasts and filamentous fungi is provided. This technology provides the most accurate and rapid method for identification.
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Real Time PCR Detection of Pathogens
CBI has developed real time PCR methods for detection and identification of viral and bacterial pathogens. CBI is an industry leader in developing novel technology for rapid of detection ofmicrobial and viral agents in environmental and complex samples. CBI has combined these technologies with robust extraction procedures to supply a unique and responsive service. CBI operates a state-of-the-art licensed BSL III facility and can receive restricted agents from facilities under CDC licensure. A list of some of the assays CBI has developed is shown below:
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Computer Assisted Assay Design
Our expert molecular biologists can develop specific assays for your project or can use one of the many standard assays in place at CBI. CBI maintains a powerful suite of sequence analysis software and can provide customized bioinformatics services to "design" your assay. CBI offers custom synthesis of TaqMan primers and probes and can incorporate the latest technological advances in the design of the probes.
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