Kaneka Releases PCR Test Kit for COVID-19 Variants
October 10, 2021
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Kaneka Corporation has released KANEKA RT-PCR Kit SARS-CoV-2 (L452R/E484Q/E484K/N501Y), a real-time PCR test kit capable of simultaneously detecting four variants of COVID-19. The new kit has a suggested retail price of 217,800 yen, including tax, and is available for purchase starting from September 30. This test kit uses a reagent developed using Kaneka's molecular testing-related technologies. The reagent makes it possible to simultaneously detect four mutations of spike protein (the N501Y, E484K, E484Q, and L452R mutations) with a single PCR test. Based on the mutation detection patterns, it can efficiently detect variants (the Alpha, Delta, Kappa, and Beta or Gamma variants). The PCR kit for detecting COVID-19 released by Kaneka last year received approval in June of this year as "KANEKA Direct RT-PCR kit SARS-CoV-2" for use as an In-Vitro Diagnostic reagent. It is widely used in medical facilities and testing centers. Kaneka is taking a wide range of measures to combat COVID-19. These include the launching of the “Infection Initiative Team,” which conducts research and development regarding infection control measures including COVID-19, performing contract manufacturing of DNA vaccine APIs and intermediates, supplying the API used in “AviganTM”, developing antibody drugs, supplying PCR testing reagents and testing kits, and shipping vaccine using temperature controlled packages.
KANEKA CORPORATION is a Japan-based company engaged in four business segments. The Material Solutions Unit segment includes general purpose vinyl chloride resin, caustic soda, polyvinyl chloride special resin, modifier, modified silicone polymer, biodegradable polymer. Quality of Life Solutions Unit segment includes expanded styrene resin and molded products, extruded polystyrene foam boards, bead method expanded polyolefin, solar circuit method, super heat resistant polyimide films, optical materials, super heat conductive graphite sheets, solar cells, storage batteries for housing and others. The Health Care Solutions Unit segment includes medical devices, low molecular weight pharmaceutical raw materials, biopharmaceuticals, etc. The Nutrition Solutions Unit segment includes functional food ingredients, margarine, shortening, baker's yeast, spices, antifreeze ingredients, functional fertilizers and feeds.