Coronavirus: They developed a new molecular test specifically for the Omicron mutation
Researchers at the EU Joint Research Centers have developed a new molecular test specifically for the Omicron variant. What is the detection method?
Joint Research Center (JRC) Scientists the European Commission's have rapidly developed a molecular detection method specifically for the new Omicron variant of the coronavirus . The JRC called on laboratories around the world to confirm in clinical samples (in vivo) the reliability of the new test called OmMet.
The detection method is based on the widely used RT-qPCR technique. The initial evaluation of the test using computers and bioinformatics (in silico) showed that it can successfully "catch" Omicron. The test can be utilized by any laboratory capable of performing RT-PCR (real-time polymerase chain reaction) molecular tests.
The JRC said it immediately made the new test available to the EU and the scientific community to help with epidemiological surveillance, as it becomes a "road race" against time to limit Omicron.
