French biotech GeneStore has received approval from CNR France for its Detection Expert SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR Test for detection of the novel coronavirus that causes Covid-19.

The test identified two target regions within the ‘N’ gene of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA genome in a multiplex format, along with a separate reaction for internal control. Its processing cycle is fast, taking 60 to 68 minutes, and it is compatible with most real-time PCR machines with at least two channels for signal detection.

GeneStore said the kit is sensitive enough to detect even low levels of the virus from upper respiratory tract samples.

GeneStore CEO Anubhav Anusha said: “The test enables laboratories in going from purified RNA to results in one hour’s time. In line with our global mission to fight infectious diseases by enabling affordable testing, GeneStore is commercialising the test kit at a highly affordable price of €9.90, and can manufacture 1 million test kits per month at its France-based manufacturing facility.”