Kaneka Corporation has released KANEKA RT-PCR Kit SARS-CoV-2 a real-time PCR test kit capable of simultaneously detecting four variants of Covid-19.

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 centres.

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 Avigan, developing antibody drugs, supplying PCR testing reagents and testing kits, and shipping vaccine using temperature-controlled packages.