Editor’s note: This is the third article in a three-part series discussing the next generation of COVID-19 testing. Read part one: “The Next Generation of COVID-19 Testing“. Read part two: “Say Hello to the TaqPath™ COVID-19 RNase P Combo Kit 2.0”.
The Applied Biosystems TaqPath™ COVID-19 Fast PCR Combo Kit 2.0 is a multiplexed, highly sensitive, fast RT‐PCR assay for the qualitative detection and characterization of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva collected without preservatives in a sterile container from individuals suspected of COVID-19 by their healthcare provider.
Thermo Fisher Scientific developed the TaqPath™ COVID-19 Fast PCR Combo Kit 2.0 considering existing and new emerging variants. The TaqPath™ COVID-19 Fast PCR Combo Kit 2.0 uses a new advanced assay design to compensate for emerging variants and mutations. The human RNase P assay run in the same well helps assess sample quality, indicates the presence of human nucleic acid, and serves as an internal process control.
Diagnostic testing with raw saliva
The Applied Biosystems TaqPath™ COVID-19 Fast PCR Combo Kit 2.0 is a real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction diagnostic test, intended for the qualitative detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2 in raw saliva in sterile containers from individuals suspected by their health care provider of having COVID-19.
Fast, direct-to-PCR workflow
Bypass the RNA extraction altogether and go directly from raw saliva collection to PCR. The TaqPath™ COVID-19 Fast PCR Combo Kit 2.0 directly utilizes raw saliva treated with Applied Biosystems SalivaReady™ Solution, omitting the need for sample extraction. The simplified workflow and increased speed from raw saliva samples to results makes this an ideal choice for widespread, high-frequency testing.
An advanced assay design compensates for known and emerging SARS-CoV-2 mutations
Our innovative, multi-target assay design compensates for emerging SARS-CoV-2 mutations to provide more confidence in your results.
Simple and affordable
Saliva is easily collected, which simplifies the workflow while reducing exposure to healthcare providers. Saliva collection allows you to save on time and costs such as swabs, transport media, containers, PPE, and labor.
RNase P gene serves as an internal specimen control
To support specimen integrity, the TaqPath™ COVID-19 Fast PCR Combo Kit 2.0 utilizes the RNase P gene as endogenous sample control.
Simplified storage
Conveniently store all the components at –20°C, as opposed to the previous generation of COVID-19 kits which require certain components to be stored at –70°C.
Includes Applied Biosystems Pathogen Interpretive Software
The Applied Biosystems Pathogen Interpretive Software automatically validates each run and prepares a report for all tested specimens, decreasing analysis and interpretation time and helping reduce the risk of user interpretation error.
The TaqPath COVID-19 Fast PCR Combo Kit 2.0 workflow does not require RNA extraction and provides results with only a 2-hour turnaround time.
To learn more about the new TaqPathTM COVID-19 2.0 Assays, click here.
For more information about the TaqPathTM COVID-19 Fast PCR Combo Kit 2.0 performance and how to order it, click here.
Intended use and regulatory statements of products vary. For specific intended use and regulatory statements, please refer to the Instructions for Use (IFU). Product availability by country varies.