Eurofins Technologies has announced the launch of its GSD NovaType III SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test , developed for the rapid detection of variants of concern of SARS-CoV-2, in particular the variants B.1.617 (“India”), B.1.427 / B.1.429 (“California / United States”), B.1.351 (“South Africa”) and P.1 (“Brazil”) . 

The test facilitates the identification of relevant mutations E484Q, E484K and L452R in a combined reaction to the simultaneous discrimination of the wild-type variant E484 of the S gene.

These mutations have been associated with reports of potential loss of efficacy of some vaccines and increased transmissibility of the virus.

The GSD NovaType III SARS-CoV-2 Kit is the latest addition to the GSD NovaType product line, a continuously updated panel of single and multiplex assays for the screening and detection of emerging variants of concern (VOC) and of interest. (VOI) on positive samples. 

These tests could play an important role in the fight against COVID-19 by allowing the rapid identification of new variants that could compromise the success of global vaccination campaigns and the implementation of isolation, testing and vaccination measures. improved in affected areas.

The NovaType III SARS-CoV-2 GSD Kit will be available as a research-only kit by June 9 . A version with CE marking is expected by the second half of June.