Strategic Diagnostics, Inc., the leading provider of immunoassay-based test kits, today announced an agreement with Novartis Seeds to develop, license and distribute a new series of diagnostic tests. Once the new tests are developed and validated, they will be distributed by SDI for quality control of foundation seeds as well as crop breeding. These diagnostic tests will enable plant breeders, seed producers and grain handlers to ensure the presence of the favorable traits in seed and grain. 

SDI has completed the development and is marketing two test kits for the detection of Bt Cry1A(b) in corn. Both kits utilize a rapid, easy-to-use test strip that provides a definitive result in under five minutes. The tests can be used as a screening tool for the detection of BtCry1A(b). Test validation has shown the test to be greater than 99% accurate and the tests do not react with other non- Cry1A(b) products. 

Richard C. Birkmeyer, President and CEO of SDI commented, ``We are excited to be launching these new tools. We believe it is critical to fully validate the use of the tests for market driven applications for the long-term success of testing for traits added through biotechnology. SDI is currently in the final development and validation stages of additional tests for the other currently commercially available traits in corn and anticipates having these tests commercially available in the upcoming months. Upon the release of these tests, SDI will have in its product offering a diagnostic test for the detection of every major trait in corn.'' 

SDI is a leading provider of biotechnology-based diagnostic tests for a broad range of agricultural, industrial and water-treatment applications. Through its antibody business, Strategic BioSolutions, Strategic Diagnostics also provides antibody and immunoreagent research and development services. SDI's test kits are produced in a variety of formats suitable for field and laboratory use, offering advantages of accuracy, cost-effectiveness, portability, and rapid response. Trait Check (TM) is a pending trademark for SDI. 

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