First Nucleic Acid Test for Additional HIV Strains

By Staff

2/20/2009

US Pharm. 2009;34(2):HS-16.

The FDA approved the cobas TaqScreen MPX Test, the first nucleic acid test that screens for the presence of two different types of HIV in blood plasma and tissue: HIV-2 and HIV-1 Group O.

The MPX test, which is manufactured by Roche Molecular Systems Inc., also detects nucleic acid from HIV-1 Group M as well as the hepatitis C and B viruses.

"With the MPX test, blood donor testing laboratories will be able to use nucleic acid technology to screen for additional HIV strains, further assuring that donated blood and tissue are free from infection and providing better protection for patients," said Jesse L. Goodman, MD, MPH, director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research.

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