Bio-Rad launches SARS-CoV-2 variant RT-PCR assays

Bio-Rad Laboratories has introduced SARS-CoV-2 Variant RT-PCR Assays for research use only (RUO). The assays can detect SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, including P.1, B.1.351, and B.1.1.7, by distinguishing specific mutations using reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) often prior to a next generation sequencing (NGS) workflow for confirmation.

With the emergence of several SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, public health researchers are looking for a quicker way to track the spread of these variants in a population. Laboratories that use NGS to track COVID-19 variants can detect these mutations more quickly and cost-effectively with the SARS-CoV-2 Variant RT-PCR Assays to more rapidly prioritize which samples to submit for NGS.

• For more information, visit: bio-rad.com/COVIDVariantSurveillance