Enterovirus PCR Detection

ELITechGroup MDx LLC (EGMDx) announced availability of their redesigned enterovirus and parechovirus analyte specific reagents^* (ASR). The ASRs are designed to be used in the development of real-time PCR assays and were reengineered for both performance and workflow functionality. The two sets of reagents are now optimized for singleplex PCR efficiency and biplex compatibility, offering greater flexibility for clinical and research laboratories.

The company projects that many children’s hospitals will appreciate their enterovirus and Parechovirus real-time PCR design improvements. Viral meningitis is a concern among children’s hospitals, with diagnostic testing for enterovirus in cerebrospinal fluid specimens by PCR recognized as the gold standard. For this pediatric patient population, clinicians also frequently consider and order Parechovirus testing. The company notes that with regard to enterovirus respiratory testing, their probe retains its ability to detect Enterovirus D68.

“Our newly released enterovirus and Parechovirus reagents have been eagerly anticipated by several of our children’s hospital lab customers,” said Scott Johnston, General Manager. Johnston added, “R&D recently completed a redesign of our enterovirus and Parechovirus ASRs. The new ASRs are optimized for improved PCR efficiency at lower copy numbers and minimal cross reactivity when biplexed. Lab workflow was also top of mind during product development. We wanted to offer a workflow solution for enterovirus and Parechovirus testing, with automated extraction, amplification, and results. This automation is possible using our ELITe BeGenius® system. Alternately for lab flexibility, our reagents are compatible with many open channel systems and can help optimize the use of existing molecular lab equipment.”