The contract was awarded under DARPA's Detect It with Gene Editing Technologies program, which aims to create a device to detect at least 10 pathogens.
The new method incorporates analysis of the amplification and melt curves and was used to create a single-channel nonaplex test using intercalating dye.
Both RT-PCR tests are for the simultaneous qualitative detection and differentiation of SARS-CoV-2, influenza A, and influenza B from throat swab samples.
Overall, GenMark's ePlex Respiratory Pathogen Panel 2 provides results for more than 20 viruses and bacteria, including SARS-CoV-2, flu A and B, RSV, and rhinovirus.
The firm said its ELISA multiplex SARS-CoV-2 test may enable early diagnosis of infected patients and broaden the number of testing options at the point of care.