ASTar is commercially available in Europe for fully automated analysis of positive blood cultures, but the platform is built to expand into other tests. At ECCMID, the automated loading station for isolate analysis will be presented as a future extension of the capabilities of ASTar. This will allow the rapid analysis of isolates using only the AST disc as a consumable.

Q-linea will also present Podler, including the portable Podler unit as well as the Podler Station that acts as a hub in the laboratory. Podler enables immediate incubation, agitation, and continuous monitoring following blood draw. Thereby making every hour count and reducing the time taken for blood culture analysis.

“I am excited to present so many products in development and how they seamlessly integrate with both ASTar and other laboratory workflows. We plan for ASTar to be extended, to also analyze isolates. Since only the AST disc is used, the product can be offered at a lower price compared to our fully automated analysis for positive blood cultures. It is thrilling to present a radical new way of looking into blood culturing with Podler. It has the potential to enable a shorter time to result for all patients with sepsis, no matter the distance between laboratory and hospital. This is another step on the path toward equitable healthcare. The products we showcase will all be a part of our goal at Q-linea to contribute to future-proof healthcare, by providing transformative solutions for infectious disease diagnostic. We will exhibit in booth 1-6”, said Jonas Jarvius, CEO of Q-linea.

ASTar Instrument and ASTar BC G- Kit are CE-marked but not FDA 510(k)-cleared and not available for sale in the United States. Podler is not currently commercially available.