The assay helps users to detect SARS-CoV-2, viral load and an early indication of the Omicron variant
FluoroType SARS-CoV-2 varID Q PCR Kit. (Credit: Business Wire.)
Bruker has announced that its FluoroType SARS-CoV-2 varID Q real-time PCR assay is capable of detecting all variants of SARS-CoV-2, including Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant.
According to the company, the CE-IVD marked assay offers a clear indication of new variant, first identified in South Africa and declared as a variant of concern by the WHO.
FluoroType SARS-CoV-2 varID Q is a multiplexed PCR assay designed to detect and quantify all major SARS-CoV-2 variants, using Bruker´s unique LiquidArray technology.
Simultaneously, the assay detects the S-gene mutations Del69-70 and N501Y, which are believed to be the indicators of Omicron variant.
When the Del69-70 and N501Y mutations are identified in a sample, it indicates possible infection of Omicron variant, which can be confirmed by genomic sequencing.
Also, the FluoroType SARS-CoV-2 varID Q provides a viral load result, as per the WHO standard (IU/ml), along with CP values and easy interpretation of mutations.
Burker said that the test has been validated for use with nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs and contains reagents for 96 reactions.
It enables sample extraction, amplification and PCR results all within three to four hours.
FluoroType SARS-CoV-2 varID Q runs on the FluoroCycler XT PCR instrument after sample has been prepared using the GenoXtract fleXT system.
FluoroCycler XT system provides fully automated extraction and PCR set up, said Burker.
The company’s FluoroSoftware will analyse the results from the FluoroCycler XT system, and offers the easy-to-read results and direct indication of mutations.
Hain Lifescience is the legal manufacturer of the FluoroCycler XT, MTBDR 2.0 assay, GXT nucleic acid preparation kits and of the FluoroType SARS-CoV-2 assays.
Its FluoroType SARS-CoV-2 varID Q assay helps users to detect SARS-CoV-2, viral load and an early indication of the Omicron variant, said the company.
Bruker claimed that its other assays, including FluoroType SARS-CoV-2 plus, FluoroType SARS-CoV-2/Flu/RSV, and FluoroType SARS-CoV-2 evo, also detect the Omicron variant.