Roche HIV collaboration helps developing world

The test aims to contribute in supporting AIDS care programs in the developing world that use HIV-1 viral load monitoring as an integral component of assessing and managing anti-viral treatment.

Under the terms of the agreement, Primagen's Dry Filter Spot (DFS) technology would be coupled with commented Bob van Gemen, CEO of Primagen.​

"To insure there is broad access to viral load testing throughout the developing world it was logical to align our service testing menu with the market leader in viral load testing."​

Primagen said that the deal could lead to further announcements between the two organisation's combined efforts to bring their respective technologies to patients to minimise challenges associated with blood collection, storage and transportation.

Currently Primagen markets their DFS technology to global markets as a laboratory service; including Africa, the Caribbean, India, China and other markets where lack of resources and laboratory capabilities prevents access to critical viral load testing.

DFS technology has proved useful in blood sampling and in the viral load testing of HIV patients, specifically in developing nations.

The DFS specimen, once dried, is non infectious and stable, so testing can occur in either the local country.

If resources for testing are limited, the specimen can be sent via mail to qualified laboratories using the Roche​'s Amplicor and Cobas tests.

The Amplicor HIV-1 Monitor Test is an in vitro nucleic acid amplification test for the quantification of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 (HIV-1) RNA in human plasma.

The test can be used to assess patient prognosis by measuring the baseline HIV-1 RNA level and to monitor the effects of anti-retroviral therapy by measuring changes in plasma HIV-1 RNA levels during the course of anti-retroviral treatment.

The Cobas Amplicor HIV-1 Monitor Test is an in vitro nucleic acid amplification test for the quantification of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 (HIV-1) RNA in human plasma for use on the Cobas Amplicor Analyser - an instrument that automates critical steps (amplification and detection) of the PCR process.

The test facilitates the quantification of HIV-1 RNA over the range of 50-750,000 copies/mL1. Accurate monitoring of viral load levels, in conjunction with clinical presentation and other laboratory markers, may be used to assess patient prognosis, monitor anti-retroviral therapy and clinically manage HIV-1 infected patients.