PerkinElmer has announced that the performance of its SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR assays are not impacted by the emergence of Omicron (B.1.1.529), a variant of concern that was recently identified by the World Health Organization (WHO).
How the assays work
There are more than 30 Omicron mutations reported in the S gene of SARS-CoV-2. PerkinElmer’s assays do not target the S gene for SARS-CoV-2 detection and are not affected by these S gene mutations. In silico assessment against variant databases such as GISAID confirm that none of the mutations associated with Omicron variant impact PerkinElmer’s PCR based diagnostic kits.
Official comments
“Omicron contains a large number of mutations in the S gene, adding to concerns about transmissibility, immune system evasion, and vaccine resistance. It is critical to ensure that the diagnostic accuracy of SARS-CoV-2 detection assays is not compromised due to Omicron and other variants,” said Arvind Kothandaraman, Managing Director of Specialty Diagnostics at PerkinElmer.
The portfolio
PerkinElmer’s SARS-CoV-2 portfolio includes high throughput RNA extraction, FDA EUA and CE marked RT-PCR kits for SARS-CoV-2 detection. Additional solutions include: PCR and sequencing workflows for detection of mutations associated with SARS-CoV-2 and an extensive immunodiagnostics portfolio including ELISA, chemiluminescence, time-resolved fluorescence, lateral flow based antigen as well as serology testing.
