Roche and its subsidiary TIB Molbiol have developed three unique LightMix® Modular Virus kits in response to recent monkeypox virus concerns. Multiple clusters of the monkeypox virus have been reported within the past two weeks in several European countries and North America, which are regions where the virus is not normally found.
The first LightMix Modular Virus kit detects orthopoxviruses, including all monkeypox viruses from both the West African and Central African forms of the virus (referred to as clades).The second kit is a specific test detecting monkeypox viruses only (West African and Central African clade). For researchers interested in obtaining both of these results, a third kit is available that simultaneously detects orthopoxviruses plus provides information on whether a monkeypox virus is present or not (West African and Central African clade).
The test kits are available for research use in the majority of countries worldwide.
The LightMix® Modular Orthopox /Monkeypox Virus Kits are assays that detect Orthopoxviruses, including the monkeypox virus, using a technology called quantitative PCR (qPCR). To do this, first sample using an established NA extraction method.
The assay is then performed on either a LightCycler® 480 II Instrument or cobas z 480 Analyzer. The kit, reagents and instruments are all available to purchase from the majority of Roche Diagnostics affiliates.
Monkeypox was first detected in laboratory monkeys in 1958. The virus is, however, assumed to transmit from wild animals such as rodents to people – or from human to human. In an average year, a few thousand cases occur in Western and Central Africa. But cases outside Africa have been limited to just a handful that are associated with travel to Africa or with the importation of infected animals.
Targeted drug delivery revolutionises treatment by focusing medications on specific tissues, reducing the impact on healthy cells. Scientists enhance this precision with carriers like microspheres and nanoparticles, controlling release and absorption. Microspheres, made from biodegradable proteins or polymers, sustain drug release, making them ideal for targeted therapies, especially in oncology. Beyond drug delivery, microspheres open new possibilities across industries—from next-gen coatings to thermal insulation. With tailored sizes, shapes, and materials, they drive advancements in pharmaceuticals, advanced materials, and more.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed a new rule to require standardized testing of talc-containing cosmetics for asbestos. The FDA noted that this move aims to protect consumers from potential harm posed by asbestos, a known carcinogen linked to serious illnesses such as lung and ovarian cancers.
As one of the most significant holidays in China, Chinese New Year (CNY) profoundly impacts global shipping, logistics, and supply chains. Scheduled to begin on January 29, 2025, this festive period lasts up to two weeks, with many factories, ports, and businesses shutting down or operating with limited staff. Understanding the implications of CNY on your supply chain is critical to avoid disruptions and ensure seamless operations.
Disruptions in the Red Sea, Suez Canal, and Panama Canal have driven up shipping costs, sending shockwaves through the global economy.
It was truly heartwarming to see so many clients and associates visiting our stand, even as late as at the end of the show, sharing drinks and engaging in conversations.
Ocean freight rates on key global container routes have fallen again. Despite the upcoming Golden Week in China, which usually drives demand, the situation this year is slightly different, and the expected rate increase may not happen.
Highly potent active pharmaceutical ingredients (HPAPIs) are at the dangers of cross-contamination with other product forefront of pharmaceutical manufacturing. They are particularly common in targeted therapies and personalized medicines. This is primarily due to their potent therapeutic effects at low dosage forms.
The floating traffic jams off ports. The multiplying costs of moving freight. The resulting shortages of goods. All of this had seemed like an unpleasant memory confined to the COVID-19 pandemic. But no such luck!
An ocean container capacity crunch has hit global trade just as peak shipping season starts, with freight spot rates up some 30% over the past few weeks and heading higher.