Ampersand Technologies is developing the next generation of molecular diagnostics, utilising nucleic acid testing methods such as loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). Superior to more established methods in terms of speed and portability, the in vitro diagnostics being developed by Ampersand are also more accessible and affordable. Such testing opens the door to proactively managing organisms of concern (e.g. pathogens and invasive species) in applications across the primary industries and environmental monitoring spaces.
A spin-out based on research from Massey University, Ampersand has a strong IP and commercial strategy, having already commercially launched many of the dozen diagnostics developed to date. Ampersand offers testing for a number of pathogens attacking species native to Aotearoa new Zealand, including kauri dieback, myrtle rust, and a tuatara pathogen. The company is now engineering software to support the rapid development of new tests. Matū is excited to work with Ampersand Technologies in their first stage of growth from an operations and governance perspective.