SpeeDx PlexPrime SARS-CoV-2 Genotyping

SpeeDx has launched a SARS-CoV-2 variant analysis assay for research use only. The PlexPrime SARS-CoV-2 Alpha/Beta/Gamma+ assay is a single-well multiplex test designed to detect mutations N501Y, S982A, and E484K in the spike gene of SARS-CoV-2. These mutations are found in the alpha (B.1.1.7), beta (B.1.351), and gamma (P.1) variants of concern. The test is compatible with standard qPCR instrumentation. It can potentially reduce the manual process of preparing positive samples for sequence analysis by identifying samples of interest, ultimately reducing turnaround and hands-on time, the company said. The firm also plans to launch a multiplex assay for mutations related to the delta variant, and is currently assessing other mutations.