Simon Fraser University shares research results using COVID-19 testing system by Lumex Instruments

June, 2021 – British Columbia, Canada. Simon Fraser University researchers have successfully validated a faster and cheaper COVID-19 detection test based on Lumex Instruments’ microchip-based PCR system.

The results of the study have been published in The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics.

According to the results, the Lumex Instruments’ COVID-19 test kit provides accurate and reliable results in 30 minutes with 10 times fewer reagents spent than tube-based PCR tests. “So it’s 10 times less expensive, roughly speaking”, said Peter Unrau, an SFU molecular biology and biochemistry professor in the interview with Vancouver Sun.

The microchip-based test kit was validated using clinical samples from St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver, collected during the first coronavirus wave in the spring of 2020. There was 100% positive and negative agreement relative to the conventional RT-qPCR assay performed at the same hospital, which demonstrates the effectiveness of Lumex Instruments’ system.

Microchip-based RT PCR system for COVID-19 detection is a great alternative to conventional PCR testing. PCR analyzer AriaDNA together with microchips with 30 microreactors provides reliable, sensitive, and specific results in less time. Thanks to its size and ease of use, this robust system can be applied for COVID-19 testing both in clinical and mobile laboratories settings.