Seegene Expands Offerings for mpox Research
Seegene Inc., a prominent provider of innovative PCR molecular diagnostics, is making significant advancements in mpox detection with the launch of its Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV plus Assay. This research-use-only (RUO) product is specifically designed to detect Clade I, a variant associated with higher transmission rates and mortality compared to Clade II.
Enhanced Detection Features
The Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV plus Assay is engineered to identify three key targets linked to mpox disease. It effectively detects non-variola Orthopoxvirus (OPXV) and mpox virus (MPVX), offering precise confirmation of MPXV Clade I. This advanced capability makes the assay an essential resource for healthcare professionals studying the spread of mpox.
Compliance with WHO Guidelines
Importantly, the assay meets the target product profiles established by the World Health Organization (WHO). These profiles provide a framework that ensures manufacturers and researchers are aligned in developing effective assays for virus detection, particularly for mpox.
Addressing Global Health Challenges
In response to the global public health crisis posed by the mpox outbreak, Seegene is swiftly developing two critical assays aimed at detecting mpox variants. The company demonstrates its commitment by planning to distribute these products to countries in need, thereby enhancing international efforts to combat the virus's spread.
Capability to Detect Multiple Viruses
A standout feature of Seegene's new offerings is their ability to detect multiple viruses simultaneously. Alongside the Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV Assay (RUO), the Novaplex™ HSV-1&2/VZV/MPXV Assay (RUO) is designed to identify four viruses at once, including herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, varicella-zoster virus, and mpox virus. This multi-target approach significantly increases the assay's value in both clinical and research environments.
Dedication to Combating mpox
According to Daniel Shin, Executive Vice-President and Chief Global Sales and Marketing Officer at Seegene, the company recognizes the growing research demands due to the ongoing mpox outbreak. This new RUO assay aims to bolster efforts in affected regions and contribute to the worldwide battle against mpox.
About Seegene
With over 23 years of experience in research and development, Seegene has established itself as a leader in multiplex PCR technology. The company's expertise was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when it provided more than 340 million COVID-19 tests to over 100 countries worldwide. Seegene's technology is distinguished by its ability to test for multiple pathogens in a single assay, yielding valuable insights into infection profiles.
Recent data collected from January 2024 to September 6, 2024, indicates that there have been 24,851 suspected cases, 5,549 confirmed cases, and 643 deaths linked to mpox across African Union member states, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). Furthermore, as the mpox variant continues to spread, affected regions now extend beyond Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV plus Assay?
The Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV plus Assay is a research-use-only product specifically designed to detect Clade I mpox and identify non-variola Orthopoxvirus.
How does the assay contribute to mpox research?
By accurately detecting mpox variants, the assay assists healthcare professionals and researchers in understanding the virus’s behavior and controlling its spread.
What is the importance of WHO's target product profiles?
The WHO's target product profiles serve as guidelines for manufacturers when developing assays, ensuring they meet important standards for effective virus detection.
How effective is Seegene's technology in simultaneous testing?
Seegene's multiplex PCR technology allows the detection of multiple pathogens in one go, providing critical information on illness progression and infection types.
What was Seegene's role during the COVID-19 pandemic?
During the pandemic, Seegene was instrumental in supplying rapid and effective COVID-19 testing solutions globally, which showcased its capabilities in the diagnostics field.
