Molgen introduces new RT-qPCR multiplex kit that detects 5 respiratory viruses
The rapid and global spread of SARS-CoV-2 has impacted society heavily. This pandemic has placed both the world economy and health under pressure. To provide relief to populations, governments and businesses during these difficult times, MolGen has developed a high throughput, efficient and safe testing framework. MolGen’s high quality PCR kits are equipping laboratories worldwide with innovative solutions that scale up and accelerate their testing capabilities. Moreover, MolGen’s portfolio includes several PCR kits that have high specificity and sensitivity and can detect various SARS-CoV-2 variants and other respiratory viruses.
While COVID-19 remains active worldwide, detection of other respiratory viruses also remains a priority. Its diagnosis is often neglected due to lack of time, money, or equipment. Yet, if we want to optimize patient care and provide treatment options, especially during peak testing season, then such respiratory diseases must also be diagnosed in a timely and accurate manner. To tackle this issue, MolGen has introduced a new RT-qPCR multiplex kit – MoaA RT-qPCR kit –that combines the detection of five different infectious respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2.
The MolGen MoaA RT-q kit is a single well, multiplex RT-qPCR which targets: Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus, Respiratory syncytial viruses (RSV) type A & type B and SARS-CoV-2. These 5 targets represent the most common respiratory threats at the moment. Each of these five highly infectious diseases can be detected with a single PCR reaction. By combining these into one single kit, diagnostics’ pricing, efficiency and time management are vastly improved.
The kit utilizes PlexZyme technology for specificity and superior multiplexing capability. The PlexZyme technology entails two target-specific partzymes that will bind to the target. Once these two partzymes are bound and in near proximity to each other, the probe will bind the two partzymes to start the enzymatic reaction.
The probe is cleaved to create a fluorescent signal which is detected by the PCR system. Using this technology, 5 different binding events (two primers, two partzymes, 1 probe) are required for signal detection instead of the usual 3 binding events (2 primers, 1 probe). This greatly increases the specificity of the PCR reaction. The patented PlexZyme technology also includes a universal probe, as it only needs to target the partzymes, which removes the need to create a target-specific probe.
The MolGen MoaA RT-q kit is compatible with PCR systems like the ABI QuantStudio 5/7 and ABI 7500 FAST/FAST DX. It is also compatible with commercial magnetic bead extraction systems, like the PurePrep 96.
