Automated Viral Load Testing System Approved
A new laboratory tool from Siemens Healthcare recently obtained marketing clearance from the Food and Drug Administration. The new VERSANT 440 Molecular System was designed for use with the Siemens’s VERSANT HCV RNA 3.0 assay. A press release was issued by Siemens describing the approval.
The new Molecular System is a branched DNA system. Testing is simplified through the elimination of nucleic acid extraction. This analysis approach also minimizes the risk of cross-contamination. Data indicates that results obtained with the VERSANT are highly reproducible; viral load changes can be accurately assessed. This supports improved disease management.
The systems help to manage patients with Hepatitis C (HCV) who are being treated with antiviral therapy. The VERSANT systems provide clinicians with quantitative data about the status of disease. Integrated features support signal amplification detection and automated reagent processing during specimen analysis.
The new molecular system provides laboratories with a higher rate of throughput and requires less hands on time for laboratory staff members. Features included in the system to reduce workload in the lab include integrated bar code data entry and a system to integrate with laboratory information systems to download worklist and results. These features improve the productivity in the busy laboratory setting.
The laboratory system incorporates flexible tools for walk-away automation. The smaller footprint and single room technology simplify integrating the product into existing laboratory space.
February 25, 2008 Related topics: Laboratory, Product Approval & Certification, Laboratory Equipment, Diagnostic