QIAGEN N.V. (NYSE: QGEN) announced the availability of two custom-designed research-use-only digital PCR assays to support infectious disease research and surveillance efforts related to the Bundibugyo ebolavirus outbreak.

The assays are designed for use with the QIAcuity digital PCR system and target the nucleoprotein and VP35 regions of the virus. The company developed them using publicly available genomic sequence information released during the outbreak response.

Initial sequence analysis showed no mismatches against currently published outbreak sequences reviewed by QIAGEN. The assays are intended for qualified laboratories to evaluate emerging pathogen targets in research, wastewater surveillance and environmental monitoring settings.

The company stated the assays are for research use only and not intended for diagnostic procedures. They are available through QIAGEN's custom assay workflow on a make-to-order basis.

QIAGEN's portfolio supporting this infectious disease outbreak includes QIAseq sequencing panels available from stock for delivery, along with existing sample preparation and molecular workflow kits to support nucleic acid processing for downstream digital PCR and next-generation sequencing workflows.

"Public health preparedness depends on the ability of laboratories to evaluate emerging pathogen targets as reliable genomic information becomes available," said Thierry Bernard, Chief Executive Officer of QIAGEN.

The QIAcuity digital PCR system supports nucleic acid detection and quantification across research applications, including infectious disease research and environmental surveillance. The platform enables laboratories to adapt existing workflows as new pathogen targets emerge.

Information about the assays and custom workflows is available through local QIAGEN representatives or the customer care team, according to the press release statement.