South Korea’s Seegene Inc. has unveiled its latest research-use-only (RUO) PCR assay to address the rising threat of the mpox virus variant, Clade Ib, which is spreading in Africa. The Novaplex™ MPXV/OPXV plus Assay is designed to detect non-variola Orthopoxvirus and mpox virus (MPXV), with a specific focus on the more transmissible and lethal Clade I.
This new assay aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) target product profiles, ensuring it meets key criteria for distinguishing between mpox variants Clade I and II. Seegene has responded rapidly to the global mpox outbreak, which was declared a public health emergency by the WHO in August 2024.
In addition to the new assay, Seegene has developed other diagnostic tools, including tests that simultaneously detect mpox alongside other viral infections like herpes and varicella-zoster. These efforts reflect the company’s commitment to supporting countries affected by the mpox outbreak, which has spread beyond Africa to regions like Sweden and Pakistan, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.
Seegene’s innovative approach continues to enhance global research capabilities in the fight against mpox, particularly in regions facing rising case numbers and significant mortality rates.
