News

Article

In the Lab eNewsletter

Pharmaceutical Technology's In the Lab eNewsletter, October 2021
Volume16
Issue 10

Codex DNA Aims to Accelerate Virus Research with Full-Length Synthetic Genome for SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant

In September, Codex DNA released a full-length synthetic genome for the SARS-CoV-2 delta variant, which may accelerate discovery and development of diagnostics and treatments for COVID-19.

Codex DNA, a US-based company specializing in automated benchtop synthetic biology systems, released its first full-length synthetic genome for the delta variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus (B.1.617 lineage) in early September 2021. The genome would allow researchers to further study the virus and can potentially accelerate the discovery and development of diagnostics, vaccines, and therapeutics to treat COVID-19.

Codex DNA synthesized and constructed the genome using its BioXp 3250 system, a fully automated synthetic biology benchtop workstation that enables the rapid, accurate, and reproducible writing of DNA and messenger RNA (mRNA). Synthetic genomes allow scientists to work safely with a replicated virus without the additional security measures required when working with that actual pathogen.

“Emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants continue to wreak havoc around the world. Codex DNA is committed to building and providing innovative synthetic tools that accelerate virus research and simplify the discovery and development processes,” said Todd R. Nelson, CEO of Codex DNA, in a Sept. 1, 2021, company press release. “We believe this new synthetic genome will be a key resource to identify, monitor, and combat the SARS-CoV-2 virus in our ongoing fight against COVID-19.”

Source: Codex DNA

Newsletter

Get the essential updates shaping the future of pharma manufacturing and compliance—subscribe today to Pharmaceutical Technology and never miss a breakthrough.

Related Videos
Shortcut from point A to point B | Image Credit: © Olivier Le Moal - stock.adobe.com
Behind the Headlines, Episode 21: Waters-BD Merger, Merck’s $10B Bet, and Biotech’s Investment Frontiers
Wooden blocks spelling TARIFFS are placed on a map of North America, specifically over the United States and Mexico | Image Credit: © Rokas - stock.adobe.com
Jason Waite, International Trade Expert, Alston & Bird
Simona Guidi, Associate Director, ProPharma
Tore Bergsteiner
Behind the Headlines, Episode 20: CAR-T Milestones, Abbvie and Eli Lilly M&A Moves, and More
DC skyline at night with view of the White House and the Washington Monument | Image Credit: © Jessica - stock.adobe.com
Related Content