Purpose/Principle

This assay is a real-time PCR system that allows the direct amplification and qualitative detection of VZV DNA from unprocessed specimens without nucleic acid extraction. The system consists of the Simplexa™ VZV Swab Direct assay, the LIAISON® MDX with software, the Direct Amplification Disc (DAD) and accessories. Fluorescent probes are used together with corresponding forward and reverse primers to amplify a well-conserved region of the VZV DNA polymerase gene and internal control targets, used to detect PCR failure or inhibition.