A portable on-site nucleic acid test of the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) analyzes patient samples The 2019-nCoV test kit with Maverick instrument. Source: Anitoa Systemswithout the need to freeze, transport and thaw the materials. The assay from California-based biotech company Anitoa Systems has been tested in hospitals and laboratories in China, demonstrating 97% accuracy with 99% specificity.

The system combines the company’s portable Maverick real time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) instrument with a one-step reverse transcription qPCR reagent for testing 2019-nCoV. Elimination of sample transport and preparation requirements saves time and reduces risks of cross-contamination. The testing protocol also avoids false-negative readings due to the degradation of viral RNAs in the sample when transported.

Results are returned in about 30 minutes from the Maverick device, which features a four-plex optical multiplexing subsystem to detect multiple gene targets in one sample. An ultra-low light complementary metal oxide semiconductor image sensor shrinks the footprint and cost of the instrument by integrating required sensing and processing functions into one silicon chip.

Anitoa is currently applying for clinical clearance under emergency use authorization regulations in both the U.S. and China.