Bio-Rad Laboratories, a global provider of life science research and clinical diagnostics products, has launched the SARS-CoV-2 S Gene Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Epsilon Variant Controls as part of its Exact Diagnostics line of molecular quality control products for research testing.
These Exact Diagnostics SARS-CoV-2 S Gene Variant Controls are intended to be validated as independent external run controls and used for research testing with molecular assays targeting mutations in the Spike (S) gene. The products are to be used with assays detecting SARS-CoV-2 variant RNA and to be processed in the same manner as patient specimens to monitor all the steps of molecular assays.
This line of variant controls consist of synthetic RNA transcripts of the respective variant SARS-CoV-2 S genes in a matrix simulating transport media. Because the products also contain human genomic DNA (human gDNA; which includes the human RNase P) for internal control needs, they also enable laboratories to monitor the entire process of a molecular assay, including extraction (optional), amplification, and detection.
The SARS-CoV-2 Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Epsilon variant S genes and human gDNA are internally targeted to 200,000 copies/mL and 75,000 copies/mL, respectively, using Bio-Rad Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) to ensure lot-to-lot consistency. Learn more at QCNet.
Featured Image: Bio-Rad Laboratories has released SARS-CoV-2 S Gene Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Epsilon Variant Controls as part of its Exact Diagnostics line of molecular quality control products for research testing. Photo: Bio-Rad Laboratories
