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CD4 Initiative

Developing the test

laboratory equipmentInnovative funding model

The CD4 Initiative have developed an innovative funding model to develop their CD4 test.

In 2006 the CD4 Initiative management team implemented their novel model and put out a call for CD4 test proposals following strict specifications. Funding was awarded to six successful applicants from the academic and industrial field.

Industry-focused

By employing a collaborative and competitive framework between CD4 diagnostic test development groups, the CD4 Initiative management team utilised a novel industry-focused funding model to identify the most promising CD4 diagnostic test.

At each critical phase of the product cycle the CD4 Initiative management team assessed the test prototypes from each development group. The group whose test met the required standards continued to be awarded funds by the CD4 Initiative to develop their tests.  

Zyomyx Inc., based in California, USA, is the successful awardee currently working with the CD4 Initiative management team on Phase III of the product cycle to develop a diagnostic test. ImmunoSite Technologies LLC, based in Florida, USA, has been awarded continued funding by the CD4 Initiative to develop quality assurance material for the test.

Product development partnership

This industry-focused funding model has enabled the CD4 Initiative to forge successful product development partnerships with the diagnostics industry which can be transferred to future projects and priority health conditions.

Policy influence

With two field trials already completed in the UK, the CD4 Initiative are working to set up further, rigorous field trials in Malawi, Uganda and the UK to ensure the CD4 test is accurate. The success of field trials could directly influence policy makers in resource-poor countries to benefit HIV and AIDS care.