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The testing kits that were provided by PrimerD were the qPCR kit which was used to validate the LAMP test against an approved reference. This is actually stated in the research paper on the LAMP test posted previously.
We discussed Optigene on the 5th of june 105 replies here are the highlights
Basingstoke Hospital in Partnership with Optigene and Novacyt.
https://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/news/regional/andover/18354750.basingstokes-super-fast-covid-test-set-rolled-across-uk/
Says in this article
We were in a fortunate position to be able to link with a local company in Chandlers Ford, PrimerDesign, who partnered with us to provide the testing kits needed and we are very delighted that we could join forces to make this a reality so quickly.”
VanV, Optigene test is 5 minutes
LAMP is a nucleic acid amplification method providing a quick diagnostic method (20 mins) suitable for use without extensive training or equipment.
A Point of Contact (POC) molecular diagnostic test using LAMP based assays should be readily achievable - the only instrument requirement is an inexpensive heater.
One important requirement for a POC test is stability of the test for distribution and storage under ambient conditions. Hence I assume support from PrimerDesign with the test assay was very important.
https://www.basingstokegazette.co.uk/news/18343185.basingstoke-hospital-reduces-testing-time-covid-19-five-minutes/
Not a true PoC test but 5 mins for a molecular test is 5 minutes. How involved are NCYT?
We may find out tomorrow!
I think Han**** is throwing the kitchen sink at testing now. His job is on the line.
Following the Science
Test, test, test
gla
“We were in a fortunate position to be able to link with a local company in Chandlers Ford, PrimerDesign, who partnered with us to provide the testing kits needed and we are very delighted that we could join forces to make this a reality so quickly.”
http://www.optigene.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/OptiGene-Press-Release.pdf
Nerve settler :-)
CEO Graham Mullis liked LinkedIn post by Dr Stephen Kidd who's recruiting biologists and microbiologists for the LAMP rapid community testing project that has been developed in partnership with OptiGene, Hampshire Hospital and Novacyt.
Jacob Barratt, Head of UK sales and Laura Shawdon, Account Manger also liked post.
The new LAMP test will produce results in 5 to 20 mins. For more information on the LAMP test have a read back through this thread.
Novacyt have not formally announced this product, result of trial due June 19th + 2 weeks. Will be the 3rd new Novacyt test to launch in June.
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/kiddstephen_covid19response-activity-6673578191937904640-rjKj
Regards
Bramley1967
Yes, thanks for the link ted.
For those who don’t read links I have copied an interesting section of the testing procedure , it mentions “GOLD STANDRD” now who has the “gold standard “test ????
THE SCIENCE
The tests use the gold standard of virus detection, RT-PCR testing. They are sensitive enough to detect the particles of COVID-19, even if the passenger has displayed no symptoms. Swabs will be securely transported from the Airport to one of Collinson’s biotech labs, which can then process specimens generally within five hours, after which passengers are alerted that their result is ready to be viewed in their account.
Another link for you. Simon Calder no less.
His last line does sum up our general handling of this situation. IMO
https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/quarantine-heathrow-airport-flying-passengers-test-travel-coronavirus-a9602721.html
Snippet: Specifies it is a swab test.
Under the proposals travellers taking the RT-PCR swab test would continue to their quarantine address provided at the time of booking to await the result, which, if negative, would allow them to come out of self-isolation.
This is the difficulty with using saliva as a sampling base (still under review though - maybe Optigene cracked it) ...
https://theconversation.com/explainer-whats-the-new-coronavirus-saliva-test-and-how-does-it-work-141877
This is the Optigene test ...
"The new test only requires the individual to spit into a sample pot to be tested for current COVID-19 infection, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said."
https://www.sciencefocus.com/news/coronavirus-new-saliva-test-for-covid-19-to-be-trialled-in-southampton/
Yes would just need to collect saliva in a test tube. Much easier than swabbing your tonsils and up your nose like people are having to do at the moment. My partner had a swab test from the drive through at Milton near Cambridge yesterday and that's what she had to do (tonsil and up the nose), came back negative btw.
This is the NHS test currently in use ...
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/testing-and-tracing/get-an-antigen-test-to-check-if-you-have-coronavirus/
The newspaper articles still refer to "swab" if it's saliva there would be no need for a swab? A container to spot into would be required - thoughts?
I posted a few articles the other day along with this one that mentions saliva - the other articles didn't say this, just that it was PCR so maybe just an error in reporting?
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-saliva-test-for-coronavirus-piloted-in-southampton
The saliva test was mentioned on the 20th and was piloted in Southampton, now who on earth has a company there? It does say in the above that’s the test is optigene which we have spoken a lot about on this bb and our involvement.
Opitgene talks about on their website they are based in Horsham right next to Gatwick airport.
Thoughts everyone
Regards
Bramley1967
https://theconversation.com/explainer-whats-the-new-coronavirus-saliva-test-and-how-does-it-work-141877
Oldish info : Trials in Australia - saliva PCR tests not as sensitive etc...
I haven't heard of the NHS using saliva for testing. Has anyone else?
It may just be that it is sputum and the journalist just got their wires crossed.
We have a big advantage already in been able to use sputum as Roche’s test is only oral and nasal based and as harts says these are reasonably invasive and unpleasant.
I imagine if you can use sputum and that saliva is similar and we know how quick to react to market needs novacyt are that we Have a great head start in bringing a saliva based test to market.
I've had a feeling for a few days that NCYT are waiting to announce something but haven't got clearance yet. Followed by an update in a week or so. I was leaning more towards a new contract with DHSC but maybe it's this...
Not been mentioned as an innovation in any of the RNS's as far as I'm aware.
AZ working with Novacyt to trial saliva based PCR tests so that their employees can use it instead of swabs. Would make sense if government also trialling as they need to see if saliva has enough viral load to replace swabs as less invasive. I did say this ages ago that they were working on a saliva based PCR test.
We have a sputum based test which is from a deeper section of the lungs, I’ve not heard that we have a saliva based test yet . I hope I am proved wrong , has anybody any evidence of this yet ?
If so this would be a game changer .
Heathrow test already being used in NHS so can't be that one - it's 99% ours imo
Enough to make you spit feathers.
I'm drooling at the thought that it is ours :-)
Good point Blade. The instructions for use of the new test are no where to be found! What do they say that is so secretive and market sensitive i wonder.. hmm the word saluva perhaps? This could be mindblowing!