We look in extreme environments to find microorganisms with unique enzymes that would be useful tools for molecular biology.  We then engineer these enzymes for improved performance and make them available through our Molecular Tools division.  Certain enzymes, like neoBolt™ Bst DNA Polymerase, are components of diagnostic tests that are supplied through our Molecular Diagnostics division.

Our Molecular Tools division provides innovative tools for biological research. These include bespoke enzymes, reagents and controls. For example, our VariSafe™ RNA Controls are nuclease-resistant, single-stranded RNAs, suitable as process controls for RNA extraction from various sample matrices.
Our Molecular Diagnostics division leverages Varizymes’ expertise in multiplex loop-mediated isothermal amplification (mLAMP) technology. We provide TORCH™ mLAMP pre-made diagnostic kits for a variety of diseases and pathogens and can also custom design mLAMP test kits for virtually any pathogen.

First, our TORCH™ mLAMP assays do not require nucleic acid extraction—samples can be tested as is, without the need for time-consuming purification. Second, the mLAMP amplification step takes far less time than PCR. Most tests can be completed in 15-30 minutes. Third, TORCH mLAMP assays are ideal for point-of-care testing, as we can provide lyophilized master mixes and tests can be run on portable devices.

Four, including an internal control.

Yes, we can take your pathogen(s) of choice and design TORCH mLAMP primers, optimize the assay and validate the test. Visit our Services page here.

Yes. The key enzyme in LAMP is the strand-displacing polymerase. Our proprietary neoBolt™ Bst DNA Polymerase has been engineered for high reverse transcriptase activity, so it can amplify both DNA and RNA targets in the same assay. For example, our AqPathDx™ Kit for Tilapia pathogens will simultaneously detect Aeromonas spp., Streptococcus spp. and Tilapia Lake Virus (TiLV), the latter being an RNA virus. Thus, testing is greatly simplified—separate tests do not need to be run for DNA and RNA targets.

Tagmentation combines the fragmentation and adapter ligation steps of NGS library prep, greatly simplifying the workflow. SwifTag Tn5 2.0 Transposase catalyzes the tagmentation process. It has been engineered for improved activity and stability.

No. TORCH mLAMP assays are portable as we provide lyophilized master mixes that are stable for months at room temperature. In addition, TORCH mLAMP assays require minimal sample prep and can be run on a battery-operated fluorometer at point-of-care. The tests are fast, simple to run and require minimal training.

Yes. We can OEM any of our Molecular Tools. We can also discuss custom enzyme or reagent needs you might require. Please inquire here.