Sixth Wave Innovations Inc. announced that its patent pending Accelerated Molecularly Imprinted Polymer technology has successfully detected the SARS-CoV-2 virus at sensitivity levels two hundred and fifty times lower than commercially available rapid antigen tests. This makes AMIPs sensitive enough to detect both symptomatic and asymptomatic persons before they are contagious to others, an achievement that cannot be claimed by rapid antigen self-tests. Collaborating with researchers at the world-renowned Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology at the University of Alberta ("Institute"), saliva samples were spiked with live SARS-CoV-2 virus using a protocol like established ELISA clinical tests.

The battery of tests resulted in detection levels down to 1,000 virus particles in 25 microliters of sample with the AMIPs prototype test. Sixth Wave continues to rely on the Li Ka Shing Institute for the preparation of viruses, implementation of testing methods, use of recognized analytic methods and equipment, and live virus testing under a funded Agreement between the parties. The ability to detect the virus in saliva samples is a critical diagnostic tool as the healthcare system transitions from a COVID-19 pandemic to an endemic state.

The AMIPs tech's synthetic nature and robust design provide attributes for testing such as: Faster results, non-invasive, less expensive, no special storage or handling requirements, long shelf life, inexpensive scalable manufacturing and rapid development times for variants or new viral threats.