New Test Tracks Virus Variant Lineages

Roche and its subsidiary TIB Molbiol, recently announced they had developed a COVID-19 PCR test for researchers that detects and differentiates the latest variant of concern, XBB.1.5.

The XBB.1.5 variant is prevalent in the U.S. and is quickly spreading to other countries.

XBB.1.5 is a sub-variant of a SARS-CoV-2 beta coronavirus variant named XBB.

Differentiating emerging variants and understanding their similarities and mutations empowers experts to make predictions about treatment strategies.

The VirSNiP SARS-CoV-2 Spike F486P test is for use on the LightCycler® 480 II and cobas® z 480.

“Roche continues to develop timely diagnostic innovations related to COVID-19 by providing valuable insights - helping scientists and physicians understand this new strain, how it differs from other variants, and the impact it may have on public health,” said Matt Sause, CEO of Roche Diagnostics, in a press release on January 26, 2023.

“Since the start of this global health crisis, Roche has been committed to bringing effective diagnostic solutions to address unmet needs to healthcare communities worldwide.”

The research-use-only test, VirSNiP SARS-CoV-2 Spike F486P, adds to the broad suite of COVID-19 test kits developed by Roche and TIB Molbiol.

In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration has authorized numerous COVID-19-related tests as of January 27, 2023.