A HAND-held device capable of diagnosing malaria within minutes has been developed and launched by a pioneering company based in the North East.

QuantuMDx Group has developed the DNA diagnostic technology which will allow doctors, nurses and pharmacists to identify malaria infection in around 15 minutes, as well as gauge the correct drug to prescribe.

The £4m Nanomal project is aiming to provide an affordable hand-held diagnostic device to developing countries and will be trialled in Gabon, in Central Africa, in the next two years.

It will allow healthcare workers in remote rural areas to deliver effective drug treatments to counter resistance more quickly, potentially saving lives.

The company moved from London to Newcastle in August last year, setting up in the Centre for Life. Its medical director is Newcastle University’s renowned professor of clinical genetics, Sir John Burn.

Chief operating officer Dr Sam Whitehouse said: “The project is unique as it provides a malaria diagnosis and comprehensive screening for drug susceptibility in less than 20 minutes, while the patient waits.

“Very often, drug treatments are prescribed before the diagnosis and drug resistance are confirmed, and may not be effective.

“Being able to treat effectively and immediately will prevent severe illness and save lives.

“As a company we’ve experienced rapid growth. We were very small this time last year with just a few people whereas we’ve grown to employ between 25 and 30 staff.