A PCR kit that differentiates the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant

Bothell, WA December 10, 2021 ELITechGroup MDx LLC (“ELITechGroup MDx”) announced today that its Research Use Only (RUO) SARS-CoV-2 Extended test kit reliably differentiates the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant from other variants of concern. The in-silico analysis was confirmed by testing patient samples positive for different SARS-CoV-2 variants including Omicron. ELITechGroup MDx is pleased to offer the SARS-CoV-2 Extended RUO reagents that differentiate the Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron variants in a single multiplex PCR. The company’s proprietary MGB Pleiades® technology is at the heart of this achievement. Melting curve analysis is used as an added dimension of discrimination in addition to multiple optical channels. The SARS-CoV-2 Extended RUO reagents can be used on ELITe InGenius®, Applied Biosystems TM 7500 Fast Dx, QuantStudio TM 5, and Bio-Rad CFX-96TM, all of which offer melting curve capability. The SARS-CoV-2 Extended RUO reagents test for the presence of specific mutations in the regions of the S gene corresponding to positions 452, 484, and 501 of the spike protein. The combination of the melting curve analysis and the optical channel information allows for unambiguous differentiation of the five SARS-CoV-2 variants. The results can be interpreted and released when the reagents are used on the sample-to-result ELITe InGenius system. The existing SARS-CoV-2 portfolio products from ELITechGroup MDx all detect the Omicron variant. These newest SARS-CoV-2 Extended RUO* reagents now enable labs to differentiate this newest variant of concern. For ordering information, please email mdx@elitechgroup.com. *For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures. About ELITechGroup: ELITechGroup is a privately held group of worldwide manufacturers and distributors of in vitro diagnostic equipment and reagents. By bringing together IVD specialty companies that offer innovative products and solutions, ELITechGroup has become a major contributor in advancing clinical diagnostics to research and commercial laboratories. Media contact Scott Johnston General Manager s.johnston@elitechgroup.com (925) 495-9492″