QIAGEN has introduced the QIAseq xHYB Mycobacterium tuberculosis Panel, a research tool aimed at combating tuberculosis (TB), the world’s deadliest infectious disease. This panel facilitates culture-free whole genome sequencing (WGS) directly from samples like sputum or cerebrospinal fluid, slashing the time needed for results and enabling real-time epidemiology of TB outbreaks. By sidestepping the need for bacterial culture, it speeds up obtaining results and addresses a crucial need in TB surveillance and control.
The panel, designed against the seven major TB lineages, covers a wide spectrum of diversity. Its innovation lies in enabling whole genome analysis from clinical samples, bypassing the culturing delay, and encompassing genetic diversity. Notably, it aids in detecting and managing antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a growing concern in TB treatment, by covering all AMR-related genes, including those associated with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB).
Surveillance of TB, including drug-resistant strains, is pivotal for tracking resistance emergence and spread, updating treatment guidelines, and fostering research for new treatments and diagnostics, thus enhancing patient outcomes. TB, primarily spread through coughing, remains a significant global health threat, with millions of new cases and deaths annually.
QIAGEN’s commitment to TB management is evident through its leading diagnostics solution, QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus, which detects latent TB infection with superior accuracy compared to the traditional TB skin test. With endorsements from CDC and WHO, over 100 million QuantiFERON-TB tests have been used worldwide, aiding in detecting latent TB infections, which have the potential to progress to active TB.
At the upcoming ESCMID Global 2024, QIAGEN will showcase the QIAseq xHYB Mycobacterium tuberculosis Panel, along with other diagnostic technologies like the QIAcuityDx digital PCR platform and QIAstat-Dx Analyzer 2.0. Attendees can also engage in the Diagnostic Insights series, featuring industry expert insights, and participate in demonstrations. A virtual reality demo of QIAstat-Dx Rise will be available as well.
QIAGEN, a Netherlands-based company, is the leading global provider of Sample to Insight solutions, empowering customers to extract valuable molecular insights from various samples. With a broad customer base in Molecular Diagnostics and Life Sciences, QIAGEN continues to innovate and support advancements in healthcare and research worldwide.
