History

DestiNA Genomics Ltd (DGL) was founded in April 2010 by Hugh Ilyine, Juan J. Diaz-Mochon and Mark Bradley as a start-up from Edinburgh University, based on the research and validation of novel “dynamic chemistry” approaches for error free detection of nucleic acids and their mutations. The technology is unique and distinguishable from ALL existing enzymatic methods of nucleic acid analysis. With the support of a Scottish Enterprise 'Proof of Concept' grant, Dr Juan Diaz Mochon, Professor Mark Bradley and PhD student Frank Bowler at the School of Chemistry demonstrated the patented SMART Nucleobase technology worked 100% accurately in detecting mutations in blind testing of Cystic Fibrosis patient blood samples. In January 2011, DGL was formally spun-out with a worldwide, exclusive licence to the technology granted by the University.

In July 2012, DGL incorporated a Spanish subsidiary DestiNA Genomica S.L. (DGSL) with the goal to accelerate research and development of its technology in Spain with partners such as Master Diagnóstica. Support from the Technological Fund of 'Invest in Spain', has allowed DGSL to developed and integrate its patented SMART Nucleobase technology with Master Diagnóstica’s e-BRID System.

To date, DGL has been supported through equity investment from the management team, angels and the Scottish Investment Bank, augmented by R&D funding from a variety of sources including Scottish 'SMART', UK Technology Strategy Board/Innovate UK, and Spanish 'Invest in Spain' grants. DGL has developed a range of strong collaborations with universities in the UK, Spain, Italy, Belgium and Greece. and in particular the GENYO Institute at the University of Granada (Spain).

DGL has commenced licensing its patented technology under evaluation and development agreements with pharmaceutical, molecular diagnostic and analytical platform companies, as well as to the manufacturing and supply of custom probes for research.

Mission

DestiNA Genomics Ltd (DGL) was formed to commercialise a revolutionary chemical based system for detecting nucleic acids and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). In particular, DGL is focused on development of simpler, faster more accurate and cost effective products for PCR free detection of microRNAs, valuable as biomarkers for toxicology, illness and disease.

DestiNA aims to become a leading manufacturer and supplier of custom chemical reagents for biomarker assays. Products in development include improved sample preparation and RNA stabilisation, refrigeration free handling, shipment and storage, as well as patented SMART Nucleobases and custom probes.

Intellectual property (IP)

DestiNA Genomics Ltd. (DGL) proprietary technology is based on the University of Edinburgh Patent (inventors: Dr Juan J. Diaz-Mochon and Professor Mark Bradley), UK priority (GB 0718255.3; 19th September 2007) and PCT applications (PCT/GB2008/003185; 19 September 2008, published 26th March 2009) that encompass our chemical approach to nucleobase characterisation. This Patent application has entered national phase filings (19th March 2010) in the following countries/regions: Europe, USA, Japan, China, Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, Singapore and South Korea.Currently, their claims have been allowed in China, USA and Europe. DestiNA also owns new IPs which will be published soon.