29 November 2021 - - US-based diagnostics and life science research company PerkinElmer, Inc. (NYSE: PKI) said the performance of its SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR assays are not impacted by the emergence of Omicron (B.1.1.529), a variant of concern that was recently identified by the World Health Organization.

There are more than 30 Omicron mutations reported in the S gene of SARS-CoV-2.

PerkinElmer's assays do not target the S gene for SARS-CoV-2 detection and are not affected by these S gene mutations.

In silico assessment against variant databases such as GISAID confirm that none of the mutations associated with Omicron variant impact PerkinElmer's PCR based diagnostic kits.

PerkinElmer's comprehensive SARS-CoV-2 portfolio includes high throughput RNA extraction, FDA EUA and CE marked RT-PCR kits for SARS-CoV-2 detection.

Additional solutions offered by PerkinElmer include: PCR and sequencing workflows for detection of mutations associated with SARS-CoV-2 and an extensive immunodiagnostics portfolio including ELISA, chemiluminescence, time-resolved fluorescence, lateral flow based antigen as well as serology testing.

PerkinElmer offers solutions to serve the diagnostics, life sciences, food, and applied markets.

The company reported revenue of approximately USD 3.8bn in 2020, serves customers in 190 countries, and is a component of the S and P 500 index.