EKF Diagnostics has secured new contracts for the manufacture and supply of a novel, patented sample collection device which allows SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus samples to be rapidly inactivated in the collection tube, avoiding contamination and preserving RNA without need for refrigeration. To support the increase in testing globally, a safe and easy sample collection and transport mechanism is essential, and this is provided by the PrimeStore MTM sample collection device.
EKF is a contract manufacturer and supplier for the PrimeStore MTM, which is an FDA-cleared and CE-marked microbial nucleic acid storage and stabilisation device, owned and created by Longhorn Vaccines and Diagnostics (Bethesda, Maryland, US). PrimeStore MTM deactivates viruses, bacteria, fungi and Mycobacterium tuberculosis allowing safe sample handling and transport, and eliminating the risk of infection during transport and in laboratories.
In addition to removing the need for cold chain storage of samples, RNA and DNA are perfectly preserved ready for safe testing immediately on arrival at a laboratory and without need for containment. SARS-CoV-2 has led to a significant increase in global demand for this unique device, which is the only FDA Class II-cleared device for microbial nucleic acid storage and stabilisation (RNA and DNA) available for the safe transportation of samples which may contain viruses.
Source BioScience provides ISO15189 laboratory testing services for the NHS and private healthcare. It is working with a number of businesses to provide them with coronavirus testing services for their staff to enable them to bring back those who may be self-isolating due to concerns over infection, or that of a family member. The ability to use the PrimeStore MTM transport medium allows a significant benefit of removing the cold chain transportation that is a necessary protocol for other transport media.