We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. To learn more, click here. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies. Cookie Policy.

Features Partner Sites Information LinkXpress
Sign In
Advertise with Us
INTEGRA BIOSCIENCES AG

Download Mobile App





Lab-Based COVID-19 PCR Tests Fail to Distinguish New ‘Stealth’ Version of Omicron from Other Variants

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 09 Dec 2021
Print article
Illustration
Illustration

Omicron, the new SARS-CoV-2 variant, lacks a specific feature that allows PCR tests to distinguish probable cases among COVID-19 positive individuals, according to a report by The Guardian.

Scientists claim to have identified a “stealth” version of Omicron that cannot be distinguished from other SARS-CoV-2 variants using PCR tests utilized by public health officials to gain an understanding of its spread globally. The first Omicron (B.1.1.529) case was reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) on November 24. Just two days later, the WHO designated the variant a Variant of Concern (VOC), based on its unusually large number of mutations and early evidence of its spread. Despite a series of rapidly implemented travel bans, it has now been reported in Africa, many European countries, and a few in Asian countries.

The newly-discovered variant of Omicron shares several mutations with the standard Omicron, but lacks a specific genetic change that allows probable cases to be flagged by lab-based PCR tests. Most PCR machines look for three genes in the virus, although Omicron (and the prior variant Alpha) test positive on only two of these machines due to a genetic change called a deletion in the “S” or spike gene in both Omicron and Alpha. As a result of this glitch, PCR tests that display the so-called “S gene target failure” are highly suggestive of Omicron infections. The commonly used tests can still detect the stealth variant of Omicron as coronavirus, and genomic testing can identify it as the Omicron variant, although routine PCR tests that deliver quicker results can fail to flag probable cases.

Following the discovery of the new form of the Omicron variant, researchers have now split the B.1.1.529 lineage into standard Omicron, known as BA.1, and the newer variant, known as BA.2. Some researchers have now termed the new variant as “stealth Omicron” due to its lack of deletion that allows it to be spotted by PCR tests. Despite falling under Omicron, the stealth variant is so genetically distinct that it could qualify as a new VOC if it spreads rapidly. Researchers are worried over the arrival of two variants, BA.1 and BA.2, in quick succession with shared mutations that could indicate public health surveillance “is missing a big piece of the puzzle”.

Platinum Member
COVID-19 Rapid Test
OSOM COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test
Specimen Collection & Transport
Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Test
GPP-100 Anti-CCP Kit
New
Gold Member
SARS-CoV-2 Reactive & Non-Reactive Controls
Qnostics SARS-CoV-2 Typing

Print article

Channels

Clinical Chemistry

view channel
Image: Reaching speeds up to 6,000 RPM, this centrifuge forms the basis for a new type of inexpensive, POC biomedical test (Photo courtesy of Duke University)

POC Biomedical Test Spins Water Droplet Using Sound Waves for Cancer Detection

Exosomes, tiny cellular bioparticles carrying a specific set of proteins, lipids, and genetic materials, play a crucial role in cell communication and hold promise for non-invasive diagnostics.... Read more

Molecular Diagnostics

view channel
Image: MOF materials efficiently enrich cfDNA and cfRNA in blood through simple operational process (Photo courtesy of Science China Press)

Blood Circulating Nucleic Acid Enrichment Technique Enables Non-Invasive Liver Cancer Diagnosis

The ability to diagnose diseases early can significantly enhance the effectiveness of clinical treatments and improve survival rates. One promising approach for non-invasive early diagnosis is the use... Read more

Hematology

view channel
Image: The low-cost portable device rapidly identifies chemotherapy patients at risk of sepsis (Photo courtesy of 52North Health)

POC Finger-Prick Blood Test Determines Risk of Neutropenic Sepsis in Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy

Neutropenia, a decrease in neutrophils (a type of white blood cell crucial for fighting infections), is a frequent side effect of certain cancer treatments. This condition elevates the risk of infections,... Read more

Pathology

view channel
Image: The OvaCis Rapid Test discriminates benign from malignant epithelial ovarian cysts (Photo courtesy of INEX)

Intra-Operative POC Device Distinguishes Between Benign and Malignant Ovarian Cysts within 15 Minutes

Ovarian cysts represent a significant health issue for women globally, with up to 10% experiencing this condition at some point in their lives. These cysts form when fluid collects within a thin membrane... Read more
Copyright © 2000-2024 Globetech Media. All rights reserved.