Life science breakthrough for prions from Steris Corporation
Steris Corporation, in cooperation with leading independent prion researchers, has participated in research that indicates the effectiveness of several of the company's proprietary cleaning and sterilisation technologies in inactivating prions. Prions are proteins that have been associated with debilitating and fatal illnesses in both animals and humans. Until now, it has not been possible to inactivate prions without damaging contaminated surfaces. Steris has introduced a new consumable product in its healthcare segment, and is re-introducing an established consumable product in its Life Sciences segment to address prion concerns in both of its major industries. This research has been published in the August 7, 2004 edition of The Lancet, an international journal of medical science and practice. As a result of this research, the company's Healthcare segment has introduced a new product in the United Kingdom. The product is a cleansing solution designed to be added to the washing-disinfecting cycle of washers that decontaminate surgical instruments after use, and will be sold under the brand name Hamo 100 PID (Prion Inactivation Detergent). In addition, the Life Sciences segment is re-introducing a cleaning solution currently on the market that, as part of this research, has been proven to be effective against prions. The product, CIP 100, is a leading solution used to clean pharmaceutical and biotechnology production equipment.
Tel: +1 440 392 7607 www.steris.com