The Boom in Prion Testing

With concern growing about the spread of prion-based neurodegenerative diseases, the opportunity for new diagnostics tests seems clear. A number of start-ups and research labs are working on ways to diagnose these always fatal diseases, which occur in animals and, rarely, in humans. Three large in vitro diagnostics companies are teaming up with prion start-ups--indicating not only their faith in the market but also their ability to offer global distribution to small companies struggling to meet a demand that erupted abruptly.