SARS-CoV-2 variants identification and fingerprinting
We accept SARS-CoV-2-positive patient samples in the form of purified RNA or as specimens in PBS/saline, universal or viral transport media (UTM or VTM, non-inactivated type), or inactivating transport media (ITM) – see the shipping instructions below.
It is usually feasible to sequence both targeted S protein gene regions (coding amino acid regions 55-247 and 411-580) from samples with a high viral load – Ct of 30 and below; samples with Ct of 35 and above generally do not yield any region of interest.
The introductory price of $29 per sample (sequencing both regions) is offered for a limited time only for purified RNA and non-inactivated samples. For samples containing inactivation agents (guanidine chloride, SLS, SDS, etc) an additional charge of $3 per sample is applied.
In cases if the sample quality will not allow sequencing of both regions, a discount of $3 will be given for samples from which a reliable sequence could be obtained for only one target region and $6 if no reliable sequence could be obtained for any region.
We will strive to provide the results by 3 pm PT the next day after receiving the sample (for the samples delivered before noon Pacific Standard Time), but no later than within 48h of sample receipt.
ID Genomics is not a HIPAA compliant organization – all patient samples should be stripped of any personal identification information, including gender and age. No samples with such information included will be processed.
The SARS-CoV-2 sequencing service is provided For Research Use Only.
Please feel free to contact us if you need any additional information about the sequencing service.
For your reference these are general shipping instructions.
I. If you are shipping RNA samples, please send on dry ice to ensure preservation of your samples. As always, if dry ice is used, the outer packaging must be designed and constructed to permit the release of carbon dioxide gas to prevent the build-up of pressure – contact the carrier for more info.
II. If you are shipping SARS-CoV-2 specimens (with or without swabs) follow the latest CDC guidelines. Please read the CDC instructions carefully, but here is some key info:
a. When shipping in Inactivation Transport Medium (ITM; containing for example guanidine chloride, SLS or SDS):
Place the sample tube in a leak-proof plastic bag (e.g.: biohazard resealable bags) containing an absorbent pad (e.g.: paper towel folded in several layers) and interlay it with bubble wrap. Then the bag can be placed in a regular shipping package to be shipped.
b. When shipping live SARS-CoV-2 specimens:
The sample should be packed and shipped as UN 3373 Biological Substance, Category B, in accordance with the current edition of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations and U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Transporting Infectious Substances Safely.
According to the regulations, the shipper is responsible for all aspects of packing dangerous goods. All suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 specimens must be triple-packed with primary, secondary, and outer packaging. For this scenario, the shipper would:
– Place the specimen into a leak-proof, sift-proof glass, metal, or plastic primary receptacle.
– Cushion each primary receptacle with absorbent materials and place it into a leak-proof, sift-proof 95 kPa bag or tube that can absorb the entire volume of the substance.
– Surface decontaminate the secondary packaging and move it to a “clean” zone.
Secure the secondary packaging in rigid outer packaging, then add dry ice or gel packs.
– If dry ice is used, the outer packaging must be designed and constructed to permit the release of carbon dioxide gas to prevent the build-up of pressure
– UN3373 is a diamond-shaped mark used when shipping Category B substances. It must be displayed on the outer package near the proper shipping name.
– The shipper and consignee’s name and address must appear on all dangerous goods packages
– For more information please visit:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/lab/guidelines-clinical-specimens.html
https://www.un3373.com/transport-biological-substances/pi650-air-transport/