FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation has announced the launch of the E484Q mutation detection kit, capable of detecting mutation of SARS-CoV-2. This research reagent is based on the One-Step RT-qPCR method to detect E484Q mutation, found in the Indian variant at a high sensitivity.

The new E484Q mutation detection kit is a detection reagent for SARS-CoV-2 mutation, developed using the company’s proprietary design method.

This research reagent is capable of detecting E484Q mutation, found in the Indian variant, at a high sensitivity from SARS-CoV-2 positive sample.

Furthermore, it can be combined with the existing L452R mutation detection kit, to identify the Indian variant that contains both L452R and E484Q mutations.

Its combined use with not only the L452R kit but also the N501Y and E484K mutation detection kits makes it possible to identify ➀ U.K. variant (N501Y), ➁ South African/Brazilian variants (N501Y, E484K), ➂ Indian/California variants (L452R) and ➃Indian variant (L452R, E484Q).

FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical has developed gene detection kit for SARS-CoV-2, and this kit is used in the Japanese government’s COVID-19 testing programs. The company will continue to promote research and development to expand and introduce the lineup of mutation detection kits for new variants, contributing to the programs for identifying the current status and ending the spread of COVID-19.