Seegene's New Assays: A Lifeline in the Fight Against Mpox
September 13, 2024, 6:00 pm
In the world of infectious diseases, time is of the essence. The faster we can detect a virus, the quicker we can respond. Seegene Inc., a South Korean leader in molecular diagnostics, has stepped up to the plate. They have introduced a new assay designed to detect the monkeypox virus, specifically Clade I. This variant is more dangerous, with higher transmission and mortality rates.
The Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV plus Assay (RUO) is a game-changer. It targets three key pathogens: the monkeypox virus (MPXV), non-variola Orthopoxvirus (OPXV), and provides specific confirmation of MPXV Clade I. This is crucial. Clade I is the more aggressive variant, spreading like wildfire across borders.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has set the stage with target product profiles (TPPs) for such assays. Seegene’s new assay aligns perfectly with these guidelines. It’s not just a product; it’s a tool for healthcare professionals battling the global spread of mpox.
The urgency is palpable. In August 2024, the WHO declared a global public health emergency regarding the mpox outbreak. Seegene responded swiftly, developing two assays to detect the virus. Their commitment is clear. They aim to support countries grappling with this crisis.
The Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV Assay (RUO) is designed to detect both Clade I and Clade II of the monkeypox virus. Additionally, it can identify OPXV infections. Another assay, the Novaplex™ HSV-1&2/VZV/MPXV Assay (RUO), can simultaneously detect four viruses, including herpes simplex viruses and varicella-zoster virus. This multi-target approach is like having a Swiss Army knife in the fight against infectious diseases.
The statistics are staggering. From January 2024 to early September, there were 24,851 suspected cases of mpox, with 5,549 confirmed cases and 643 deaths reported across the African Union. The virus is not confined to Africa anymore. It has spread to countries like Sweden, Pakistan, the Philippines, Jordan, and Thailand.
Seegene’s expertise is not new. With 23 years in the field, they have honed their skills in R&D and manufacturing. Their technology was pivotal during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing over 340 million tests to more than 100 countries. Their multiplex PCR technology allows for simultaneous testing of multiple pathogens in a single tube. This efficiency is vital in a world where diseases can overlap and complicate diagnosis.
The Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV plus Assay (RUO) is more than just a product launch. It represents a proactive approach to a growing threat. As mpox continues to spread, the need for accurate and rapid detection becomes increasingly critical.
Healthcare professionals now have a reliable tool at their disposal. This assay not only meets the WHO’s TPPs but also provides a clear distinction between the more dangerous Clade I and the less severe Clade II. This distinction is crucial for public health responses.
Seegene’s commitment to innovation is evident. They have leveraged their proprietary reagent development expertise to create this new assay. Their automated reagent development system (SGDDS) has played a significant role in this process.
The fight against mpox is a global endeavor. Countries need support, resources, and tools to combat this virus. Seegene’s new assays are a step in the right direction. They provide healthcare professionals with the means to conduct research and respond effectively to outbreaks.
As the world grapples with the realities of infectious diseases, companies like Seegene are vital. They are the frontline warriors in the battle against viruses. Their innovations can help turn the tide in this ongoing fight.
In conclusion, the introduction of the Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV plus Assay (RUO) is a beacon of hope. It equips healthcare professionals with the tools they need to detect and respond to mpox effectively. As the virus spreads, the importance of such innovations cannot be overstated. The world is watching, and the stakes are high. Seegene’s commitment to fighting mpox is a testament to the power of science and technology in safeguarding public health.
The Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV plus Assay (RUO) is a game-changer. It targets three key pathogens: the monkeypox virus (MPXV), non-variola Orthopoxvirus (OPXV), and provides specific confirmation of MPXV Clade I. This is crucial. Clade I is the more aggressive variant, spreading like wildfire across borders.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has set the stage with target product profiles (TPPs) for such assays. Seegene’s new assay aligns perfectly with these guidelines. It’s not just a product; it’s a tool for healthcare professionals battling the global spread of mpox.
The urgency is palpable. In August 2024, the WHO declared a global public health emergency regarding the mpox outbreak. Seegene responded swiftly, developing two assays to detect the virus. Their commitment is clear. They aim to support countries grappling with this crisis.
The Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV Assay (RUO) is designed to detect both Clade I and Clade II of the monkeypox virus. Additionally, it can identify OPXV infections. Another assay, the Novaplex™ HSV-1&2/VZV/MPXV Assay (RUO), can simultaneously detect four viruses, including herpes simplex viruses and varicella-zoster virus. This multi-target approach is like having a Swiss Army knife in the fight against infectious diseases.
The statistics are staggering. From January 2024 to early September, there were 24,851 suspected cases of mpox, with 5,549 confirmed cases and 643 deaths reported across the African Union. The virus is not confined to Africa anymore. It has spread to countries like Sweden, Pakistan, the Philippines, Jordan, and Thailand.
Seegene’s expertise is not new. With 23 years in the field, they have honed their skills in R&D and manufacturing. Their technology was pivotal during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing over 340 million tests to more than 100 countries. Their multiplex PCR technology allows for simultaneous testing of multiple pathogens in a single tube. This efficiency is vital in a world where diseases can overlap and complicate diagnosis.
The Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV plus Assay (RUO) is more than just a product launch. It represents a proactive approach to a growing threat. As mpox continues to spread, the need for accurate and rapid detection becomes increasingly critical.
Healthcare professionals now have a reliable tool at their disposal. This assay not only meets the WHO’s TPPs but also provides a clear distinction between the more dangerous Clade I and the less severe Clade II. This distinction is crucial for public health responses.
Seegene’s commitment to innovation is evident. They have leveraged their proprietary reagent development expertise to create this new assay. Their automated reagent development system (SGDDS) has played a significant role in this process.
The fight against mpox is a global endeavor. Countries need support, resources, and tools to combat this virus. Seegene’s new assays are a step in the right direction. They provide healthcare professionals with the means to conduct research and respond effectively to outbreaks.
As the world grapples with the realities of infectious diseases, companies like Seegene are vital. They are the frontline warriors in the battle against viruses. Their innovations can help turn the tide in this ongoing fight.
In conclusion, the introduction of the Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV plus Assay (RUO) is a beacon of hope. It equips healthcare professionals with the tools they need to detect and respond to mpox effectively. As the virus spreads, the importance of such innovations cannot be overstated. The world is watching, and the stakes are high. Seegene’s commitment to fighting mpox is a testament to the power of science and technology in safeguarding public health.