Smiths Detection announced a worldwide partnership with ANP Technologies Inc. for its novel immunoassay technology, which is used to verify the presence of biological threats in the field.

ANP's Nano-Intelligent Detection System (NIDS) complements Smiths Detection suite of biological detection technologies for defense and emergency response applications. Smiths Detection will begin to market NIDS through its global distribution network this month, alongside Prime Alert and BioCheck Bio-Detection kits.

Used together with NIDS, these technologies allow rapid threat assessment and identification of bio-agents such as the microbes that cause Anthrax, Plague and Tularemia as well as bio-toxins including Ricin and Botulinum.

NIDS incorporates the first multiplexed immunoassay test strip capable of identifying up to five different bio-threat agents on a single strip with exceptional sensitivity. The patented nanotechnology overcomes "false negative" results, which are a major limitation to traditional rapid immunoassay technologies. NIDS includes an advanced handheld reader that assures consistent interpretation of results, down to trace levels using pattern recognition software.