The EasyScreen™ SARS-CoV-2 Detection Kit has a 100% match by in silico analysis to the new Omicron variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and will efficiently detect the new variant.

A review of approximately one hundred Omicron genomic sequences available in global databases was undertaken and confirmed the EasyScreen™ SARS-CoV-2 Detection Kit has a 100% match by in silico analysis to the new Omicron variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Technical Bulletin

A SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern has recently been described in the media and scientific literature. This variant was originally termed Nu, and more recently Omicron by the World Health Organisation, and assigned the clade B.1.1.529. This variant has 32 mutations leading to amino acid changes in the spike (S) protein, in addition to other mutations throughout the viral genome. The EasyScreen™ SARS-CoV-2 Detection Kit RP012 does not target the S-gene, where most mutations occur.

Genetic Signatures performs monthly in silico analysis of available sequence data (GISAID) and wet testing is performed where the variant cultures are available.

In silico analysis of the EasyScreen™ SARS-CoV-2 Detection Kit RP012

The in silico analysis was performed using sequences that were uploaded to GISAID up to the 29th of November 2021 (AEST).

  • There were 137 sequences in the B.1.1.529 clade.
  • Of these, 128 covered the RP012 M-gene assay and were 100% match to this assay.
  • One-hundred and six (106) sequences covered the RP012 N-gene assay. All were 100% match to the RP012 N-gene assay.

Thus, based on in-silico analysis of all available Omicron/Nu/B.1.1.529 sequences, the EasyScreen SARS-CoV-2 Detection Kit RP012 will efficiently detect this new variant.

The nature of Genetic Signatures’ unique 3base™ technology means that the Company’s tests are less likely to be impacted by mutations and therefore, are generally able to detect variants as they arise. These findings also demonstrate the ability of Genetic Signatures to respond to new outbreaks, supported by 3base™ technology.

For more information on the benefits of 3base™ technology click here.

Contact our the Genetic Signatures team for further information at [email protected]