NEW YORK – Novacyt announced Wednesday it is partnering with AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, and the University of Cambridge to increase SARS-CoV-2 testing in the United Kingdom.
The collaboration is in support of a so-called "five pillar plan" from the UK to increase testing for the coronavirus.
AstraZeneca, GSK, and Cambridge are setting up a new testing laboratory at the university to provide high-throughput screening for SARS-CoV-2 testing. The lab will also explore using alternative chemical reagents for diagnostic tests to alleviate current supply shortages.
Novacyt will "ensure an effective workflow process within the facility" for testing and will provide its SARS-CoV-2 test for results data, the company said. The Genesig Real-Time PCR COVID-19 test was developed by Novacyt's Southampton, UK-based molecular diagnostics division Primerdesign and received CE marking in February. The US Food and Drug Administration granted Emergency Use Authorization for the test last month.
The test was also listed as eligible for World Health Organization procurement for one year under the agency's Emergency Use Listing process Wednesday.