Identification and surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 variants using PCR genotyping

A recent UK briefing compared PCR genotyping (Thermo Fisher Scientific offers PCR genotyping through the Applied Biosystems TaqMan SARS-CoV-2 Mutation Panel) and sequencing data from SARS-CoV-2 positive specimens and demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity of genotyping the Delta variant at >99% with a positive predictive value of 99.9% [1]. Although SARS-CoV-2 genotyping by PCR has only been used in England for public health research actions since March 29, 2021, by June it already accounts for >85% of valid specimen variant testing.

PCR genotyping helps to ensure that more than 80% of cases in England are now tested for variants.

Public Health England (PHE) confirms that genotyping by PCR supports identification of all currently circulating Variant of Concerns (Alpha (B.1.1.7), Beta (B.1.351), Delta (B.1.617.2) and Gamma (P.1)) [2].

The PHE approach may help labs quickly and accurately identify variants and aid in surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 and all emerging variants.

Public health containment efforts will continue to rely on monitoring known variants and identifying new mutations regionally, nationally, and globally. With such a rapidly evolving virus, it is critical to have population variant data reviewed as close to real-time as possible to effectively coordinate the SARS-CoV-2 response.

Supporting SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Surveillance

The TaqMan SARS-CoV-2 Mutation Panel, rapid genotyping PCR assays for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 mutations is highly customizable and allows you to choose from a menu of verified real-time PCR genotyping assays to build the panel you need when you need it. The panel offers all the key mutations needed to detect all of the current variants of concern.

For maximized efficiency, the TaqMan SARS-CoV-2 Mutation Panel allows addition of new mutations for the detection of emerging variants.

In addition, the TaqMan SARS-CoV-2 Mutation Panel assays are designed for convenience, supporting your current real-time PCR instrumentation. This scalable, versatile solution supports testing of a few or hundreds of samples to identify one or many mutations.

The TaqMan SARS-CoV-2 Mutation Panel assays combine our gold-standard TaqMan SNP Genotyping Assays with a 1-step RT-PCR reaction to offer quick results from RNA to results in just over one hour.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

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