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Science & Tech.
Pradeep Kumar

19/05/21 10:30 AM IST

New multiplex RT-PCR kit

In news

DST institute develops new multiplex RT-PCR kit with novel gene targets to facilitate detection across various mutant strains of COVID 19.

Technology used
  • The new kit is based on multiplex Taqman chemistry, amplifying all three genes in a single reaction
  • The amplification time for the assay is 45 minutes, apart from the time required for the RNA isolation from nasopharyngeal swab samples.
  • Multiplexing two confirmatory genes will help shortlist possible new variants if one of the genes fails to amplify and can be marked for sequence analysis.
  • ICMR has validated this kit at the National Institute of Virology, Pune, and found that it has 97.3% sensitivity and 100% specificity in covid19 detection.
  • SCTIMST has signed a non-exclusive license MoU with Huwel Lifesciences, Hyderabad, on 14th May 2021 to commercialize the kit.
Significance
  • This unique RT-PCR kit will be a significant weapon in fight against COVID-19 by a facile detection of SARS-CoV-2 mutations.
Source: PIB

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