Reviewed by: Sharron Swain
This Birmingham-based company is working to develop a Monkeypox PCR test—learn more
Reading time: 3 minutes
BioGX, a global molecular diagnostics company headquartered in Birmingham, announced a collaboration with Cepheid, a similar company out of California, to deliver a PCR test for Monkeypox. Keep reading to learn more about the development.
Game changing
The two companies announced that the tests will run on the GeneXpert system. Cepheid’s GeneXpert ystem uses a unique approach to molecular diagnostics, offering a complete menu of tests on a single, consolidated workstation.
With an existing global installed base of over 40,000 GeneXpert systems in 180 countries, this test could be deployed very quickly in many different settings.
“Regional response teams need a PCR test that is fast and easy to implement when they suspect an outbreak due to a novel pathogen.”
Michael Vickery, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer and Executive Vice President, BioGX
What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a disease that causes fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes and skin lesions. The monkeypox virus is related to the smallpox virus. but much less severe. Most people who get monkeypox fully recover within 3–4 weeks .
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), monkeypox is rare and does not spread easily between people without close contact.
While the threat of monkeypox to the general U.S. population remains low, it is still important for healthcare providers worldwide to have a preparedness plan. In a statement released by the partnering companies, they explained the need for this fast-acting test:
“One of the key signs of infection with the virus is a maculopapular rash, often appearing as small, raised spots. However, there are many other illnesses, such as chickenpox, measles, bacterial skin infections, syphilis, herpes and medication-associated allergies that can present similar symptoms. This underscores the need for a molecular test that can identify monkeypox.”
About BioGX
Birmingham’s BioGX has been focusing on the health and safety of communities all over the world since 2007. The company has since grown into a significant contender in the industry, leading the way for molecular diagnostics testing.
BioGX also has a successful track record of working with government agencies and diagnostic partners to quickly develop and manufacture at-scale molecular tests for detection of emerging pathogens.
*Product in development. Not for use in diagnostic procedures. Not reviewed by any regulatory body. Product in development is subject to change and specifications have not yet been established.*
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