Novacyt (AIM: NCYT)  announced this morning that it has launched a CE-Mark approved polymerase chain reaction (PCR) two gene target test for coronavirus (COVID-19). 

The test provides a further option to Novacyt’s single gene test and addresses the need of a number of countries which require a two gene target testing approach for COVID-19. 

The clinical diagnostics specialist said the two gene test has been developed to the same ‘high standards of precision and performance’ as its single gene target test for COVID-19, with its performance having been confirmed in validation studies undertaken by Novacyt. 

The group cited several countries that it said will require a two gene target testing approach for COVID-19. It said this will include France, Belgium, Croatia, Poland and the UAE.  

Shares in Novacyt have skyrocketed during 2020 from 13p at the start of the year to open at 315p following the announcement today. 

The Haute Autorité de Santé, which advises the French government on medical reimbursement, has confirmed to Novacyt that the two gene COVID-19 test will qualify for reimbursement for use by French testing laboratories. 

Novacyt said the success of its single gene target COVID-19 test was built around ‘robust design principles and the selection of a gene target that has so far demonstrated exceedingly low levels of genetic mutation and variation.’ 

To date, the gene target has been analysed against 60,256 individual COVID-19 viral sequences and demonstrated 100% detection. The two gene test will now be added to a weekly surveillance monitoring programme to demonstrate continued efficacy of the test. 

Commenting on the release of the new COVID-19 test, Graham Mullis, CEO of Novacyt, said: "Novacyt continues to demonstrate its ability to rapidly develop new products to address needs within the diagnostics market to support laboratories and clinicians in the ongoing fight against the spread of COVID-19. We remain committed to building on Novacyt's innovative position on a global scale as the demand for COVID-19 testing continues." 

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