Roche has launched the cobas Respiratory flex test, the first to feature their novel TAGS (Temperature-Activated Generation of Signal) technology. This breakthrough enables the detection of up to 12 common respiratory viruses, including influenza A, influenza B, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2, in a single PCR test.
TAGS technology, developed by Roche, significantly increases the number of detectable pathogens per test – from the typical four to as many as 15 – on the cobas 5800, 6800, and 8800 molecular diagnostic systems. This innovation speeds up diagnosis, enabling faster and more accurate treatment for respiratory illnesses that often share similar symptoms.
The test also offers flexibility for targeted pathogen detection based on season, location, and patient needs, simplifying lab operations by reducing the need for multiple test kits. The cobas Respiratory flex test is CE-marked and available in select countries, with U.S. FDA clearance expected in late 2024. TAGS technology holds the potential to transform high-throughput infectious disease testing globally.
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