Sense Accelerates World’s First Instrument-Free, POC Molecular Diagnostic Test for COVID-19

Sense Biodetection Limited (Oxford, UK) has accelerated its program to launch the world’s first instrument-free, point-of-care molecular diagnostic test for SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Sense is partnering closely with Phillips-Medisize (Hudson, WI, USA) to scale-up production of its test in order to meet the growing demand for rapid diagnostics.

Sense is a molecular diagnostics company focused on bringing tests to the True Point-of-Care. The company develops diagnostic products that are simple, ultra-rapid, handheld tests which remove the need for advanced hardware to determine a result. Sense’s Veros SARS-CoV-2 exploits proprietary chemistry and device technologies developed by the company over the last six years for other infectious disease applications, including influenza (flu).


Sense’s Veros SARS-CoV-2 is a simple disposable test that uses a nasal swab sample to give an ultra-rapid result without the need for any instrumentation. As a molecular test its performance is equivalent to Gold Standard laboratory tests but it is easy to use in any setting and results are available in under ten minutes. The test is fully self-contained and can be widely distributed to wherever it is needed, overcoming the logistical and contamination problems associated with machine-based testing. The COVID-19 product will be one of the first tests to be marketed by the company under its Veros brand.

“Our Veros COVID-19 test product can allow infected patients to be isolated sooner whilst providing reassurance to uninfected individuals including healthcare workers that they can return to work without infecting others,” said Harry Lamble, chief executive officer at Sense. “Due to its flexibility, speed and accuracy, the test can be deployed for rapid patient triage within hospitals as well as primary care practices, pharmacies and community centers and even distributed for use by individuals in isolation who suspect they may have COVID-19.”

Related Links:
Sense Biodetection Limited
Phillips-Medisize