Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit
Catalog no. R3013, R3013-1K, R3013-10K
For simultaneous detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and a host internal control

Instructions for Use
For research use only

Table of Contents
Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 01
Intended Use ............................................................................................................................ 01
Summary and Explanation of Test .............................................................................................. 01
Principles of the Procedure ........................................................................................................ 01
Reagents and Materials ................................................................................................................ 02
Materials Provided..................................................................................................................... 02
Reagent Storage and Handling .................................................................................................. 02
Materials Required (not provided) ............................................................................................... 03
General Laboratory Warnings and Precautions ........................................................................... 03
Special Precautions ................................................................................................................... 04
Handling Precautions for Specimens .................................................................................. 04
Work Areas ...................................................................................................................... 04
Prevention of Nucleic Acid Contamination........................................................................... 04
Procedures ................................................................................................................................... 05
Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit Procedure ................................................................................ 05
Kit Protocol ............................................................................................................................... 05
Amplification Reaction Set-up Procedure ........................................................................... 05
rRT-PCR Reaction Setup ................................................................................................. 06
96-Well rRT-PCR Setup ……………………………………………………………………….06
384-Well rRT-PCR Setup……………………………………………………………………...07
Real-Time PCR Instrument Setup ..................................................................................... 08
Data Analysis................................................................................................................... 08
Interpretation of Results.................................................................................................... 09
Appendices……………………………………………………………………………………………………....10
Examples of Normal and Aberrant Amplification Curves ............................................................... 10
Troubleshooting Guide............................................................................................................... 11
Limitations of Procedures ............................................................................................................ 12
Performance Characteristics ........................................................................................................ 13
Symbols Legend........................................................................................................................... 21
Technical Support ........................................................................................................................ 21

INSTRUCTION MANUAL Ver.1.0.2.

Revised on: 03/19/2021

Introduction
This package insert must be read carefully prior to use. Instructions must be followed
accordingly. Reliability of assay results cannot be guaranteed if there are any deviations fromthe instructions in this package insert.
Intended Use
Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit is a real-time RT-PCR test intended for the qualitative
detection of nucleic acids from SARS-CoV-2, compatible with upper respiratory specimens(such as nasal, nasopharyngeal, mid-turbinate or oropharyngeal swabs), lower respiratory
specimens (such as sputum, tracheal aspirates, and bronchoalveolar lavage), and oral fluid
specimens (such saliva) from patients suspected of COVID-19 by their healthcare provider.
Results are for the identification of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. The SARS-CoV-2 RNA is generally
detectable in upper and lower respiratory specimens, and oral fluids during the acute phaseof infection. Positive results are indicative of the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Positive
results do not rule out bacterial infection or co-infection with other viruses. The agent detected
may not be the definite cause of disease.
Negative results do not preclude SARS-CoV-2 infection and should not be the sole basis ofa patient treatment/management or public health decision.
The Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit is intended for use by personnel specifically instructed
and trained in the techniques of real-time RT-PCR assays.
Summary and Explanation of Test
The Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit is a real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain
reaction (rRT-PCR) test on the Bio-Rad CFX96 or CFX384 Touch™ Real-Time PCR
Detection System using the Bio-Rad CFX Maestro™ 1.1 Version 4.1.2433.1219 software (orhigher). The SARS-CoV-2 primer and probe set is designed to detect RNA from the SARSCoV-2 N gene in upper and lower respiratory samples from patients who are suspected of
COVID-19 by their healthcare provider.
Principles of the Procedure
Nucleic acid from patient samples is extracted and purified as described in the procedural
steps. Selective amplification of target nucleic acid from the sample is achieved by reverse
transcription of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA as well as the host specific RNase P RNA andsubsequent PCR amplification using the target-specific forward and reverse primers.
The Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit detects one SARS-CoV-2 specific target sequence
from the Nucleocapsid gene (N) of the virus and one host specific target sequence from the
RNase P gene. The primers and probes used in the rRT-PCR assay are based on the CDC
published primer and probe sequences with some modification. In addition to the RNase P
gene, the test uses both a no template control which is taken through all procedural steps,
including the extraction, and a positive control that monitor integrity of reagents and correct
performance of the testing procedure.

1

Reagents and Materials
Materials Provided

Component
Name

CV Positive
Control

2X CV Mix

No
Template
Control(NTC)

Description

Concentration

SARS-CoV-2 positive
control

2,5 copies/μl of
in vitrotranscribed
SARS-CoV-2 N
gene fragment
spiked into 1
ng/μl human cell
RNA

Cocktail for one-steprRT-PCR detection of
SARS-CoV-2 andRNase P. Includes:
enzymes, dNTPs,
MgCl2, salts, additives,
and the SARS-CoV-2
and RNase P primers
and probes

Component
Cat #R3011-3-100

Volume

3 ml

R3013-1-1

100 mlR3013

3

R3013-1K

1

R3013-10K

1

R3013

10

R3013-1K

1

R3013-10K

3

R3013

9

R3013-1K

1

R3013-10K

1 ml

N/A

R3011-4-100

1

1 ml

2X

R3011-4-1
Nuclease-free water

Kit Cat #100 µl

R3011-3-3

R3013-1-100

Quantity

100 mlNote - Integrity of kit components are guaranteed for up to the claimed expiration date on the
kit under proper storage conditions. Reagents are routinely tested on a lot-to-lot basis toensure they provide maximal performance and reliability.

Reagent Storage and Handling
The Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit is to be shipped on dry ice.
If received in a condition other than the label indicates, or that are damaged, contact Zymo
Research Corp. directly.
Upon receipt, all components of the kit should be stored at ≤ -20°C
Store at -20°C for 30 days or for longer storage, store at ≤ -70°C.
Reagents are stable for up to five (5) freeze-thaw cycles.

2

Reagents and Materials Required (NOT provided):
Product Name

Catalog No.

Manufacturer

1855195

Bio-Rad1855485

Bio-RadMicrocentrifuge

Non-specificNon-specificMini Plate Spinner

Non-specificNon-specific

HSP9601

Bio-Rad

CFX96 Touch™ Real-Time PCR
Detection System (with optics
capable of detecting HEX andQuasar 670) with CFX Maestro
software
CFX384 Touch™ Real-Time PCR
Detection System (with optics
capable of detecting HEX andQuasar 670) with CFX Maestro
software

Hard Shell PCR Plate, 96-well, thin
wall
Hard Shell PCR Plate, 384-well,thin wall

HSP3805

Bio-RadMicroseal ‘B’ seal

MSB1001

Bio-RadAerosol barrier pipette tips
(Nuclease-Free)

Non-specificNon-specificMicropipettes (2, 10, 200, 1000 μl)

Non-specificNon-specificVortex mixer

Non-specificNon-specificFreezer (≤ -70°C)

Non-specificNon-specific

Disposable gloves, powder-free

Non-specificNon-specific

General Laboratory Warnings and Precautions
This assay is for research use.
• Wear gloves when handling specimens or reagents.
• Do not pipette by mouth.
• Do not eat, drink, smoke, apply cosmetics, or handle contact lenses in areas where thesematerials are handled.
• Clean and disinfect spills of specimens by including the use of soap and water (i.e., 20%
aqueous solution of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate disinfectant (SDS))• Decontaminate and dispose of all potentially infectious materials in accordance with local,
state, and federal regulations.
Important information regarding the safe handling, transport, and disposal of this product is
contained in the Safety Data Sheet. Safety Data Sheets are available from Zymo Research
Corp. Inquire directly.

3

Special Precautions
As with any test procedure, good laboratory practice is essential to the proper performanceof this test. Due to the high sensitivity of this test, care should be taken to keep reagents andamplification mixtures free of contamination.
Only personnel proficient in handling infectious materials and the use of the Quick SARSCoV-2 Multiplex Kit and the Bio-Rad CFX96 or CFX384 Touch™ Real-Time PCR Detection
System together with the Bio-Rad CFX Maestro™ 1.1 Version 4.1.2433.1219 (or higher)
software should perform this procedure.
Handling Precautions for Specimens
All patient samples should be handled as if infectious, using good laboratory
procedures.
Inadequate or inappropriate specimen collection, storage, and transport are likely toyield false test results. Training in specimen collection is highly recommended due tothe importance of specimen quality.
Compliance with good laboratory practices is essential to minimize the risk of crosscontamination between samples and the inadvertent introduction of RNases into
samples.
Amplification technologies such as PCR are sensitive to accidental introduction of
product from previous amplification reactions. Incorrect results could occur if either theclinical specimen or the reagents used become contaminated by accidental introductionof even a few molecules of amplification product. Measures to reduce the risk ofcontamination in the laboratory include physically separating the activities involved inperforming PCR in compliance with good laboratory practices.
Work Areas
The use of 2 dedicated areas (Sample Preparation Area and Amplification Area) within
the laboratory is recommended when performing the Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit.
All reagents used in the Sample Preparation Area should remain in the dedicated areaat all times. Do not bring amplification product into the Sample Preparation Area.
The Amplification Area is dedicated to the amplification and detection of amplified
product. Laboratory coats and equipment used in the Amplification Area must remain inthis area and not be moved to the Sample Preparation Area.
Work area and instrument platforms must be considered potential sources ofcontamination. Change gloves after contact with potential contaminants (specimens,
eluates, and/or amplified product) before handling unopened reagents, no templatecontrol, positive control, or specimens.
Decontaminate and dispose of all potentially biohazardous materials in accordance withlocal, national, and European regulations.
Prevention of Nucleic Acid Contamination
Nucleic acid contamination is minimized through:• Reverse transcription, PCR amplification, and oligonucleotide hybridization
occur in a sealed 96- or 384-Well PCR Plate.
• Detection is carried out automatically without the need to open the 96-Well
Reaction Plate.
• Pipettes with aerosol barrier tips are used for all pipetting, which are discarded
after use.
• Separate, dedicated areas are used to perform the Quick SARS-CoV-2
Multiplex Kit. Refer to the Special Precautions section of this package insert.

4

Procedure
Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit Procedure
This insert contains instructions for the Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit. The Quick SARSCoV-2 Multiplex Kit has been validated using upper and lower respiratory tract specimens
collected in DNA/RNA Shield™ (Zymo Research, cat. R1107-E, R1109-E, R1210-E). All
samples were extracted using the Quick-DNA/RNA Viral Magbead (Zymo Research, cat.
R2140-E, R2141-E) extraction kit by both manual and automated procedures. Automatedextraction was performed on the KingFisher Flex Purification System (Thermo Fisher
Scientific). Real-time RT-PCR was performed using the CFX96 and CFX384 Touch RealTime PCR Detection Systems (Bio-Rad) with CFX Maestro™ 1.1 Version 4.1.2433.1219
software.
Deviation from the validated workflow described above may results in changes to theperformance of the Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit.
Kit Protocol
Laboratory personnel should be trained to operate the Bio-Rad CFX96 or CFX384 Touch™
Real-Time PCR Detection Systems. Operators should have a thorough knowledge of thesoftware run on the instrument/s and must follow good laboratory practices.
The Bio-Rad CFX96 or CFX384 Touch™ Real-Time PCR Detection Systems must be linked
together with the Bio-Rad CFX Maestro™ 1.1 Version 4.1.2433.1219 software and installedprior to performing the assay. For a detailed description of how to use the application referto the software guide: https://www.bio-rad.com/en-us/product/cfx-maestro-software-for-cfxreal-time-pcr-instruments?ID=OKZP7E15
For a detailed description of how to use the Bio-Rad CFX96 or CFX384 Touch™ Real-TimePCR Detection System, refer to the instrument guide.
(https://www.biorad.com/webroot/web/pdf/lsr/literature/10000068706.pdf).
Amplification Reaction Set-up Procedure
Overview:
The assay can be used with RNA extracted by both manual and automated protocols.
As illustrated in the workflow figure below, extracted RNA samples are mixed directly withthe 2X CV Mix and analyzed using a real-time PCR system. Results are ready to beinterpreted after the reverse transcription and real-time PCR steps are complete.

5

I.

rRT-PCR Reaction Setup:
96-Well rRT-PCR Setup:✓ Before starting, thaw frozen reagents on ice, mix 10 times by inversion, centrifuge
briefly, and place back on ice.
✓ Avoid exposing the 2X CV Mix and reactions to direct light and keep the PCR plateon ice during preparation.
✓ To prevent contamination, aliquot the 2X CV Mix in the 96-well PCR plate before
handling any test samples or controls.
1. Add 10 µl of 2X CV Mix to each well.
2. Add 10 µl of every RNA sample to be tested except CV Positive Control and NTC.
3. Add 10 µl of CV Positive Control to one dedicated well in each plate.
4. Add 10 µl of extracted No Template Control (NTC) to one dedicated well in eachplate.
Example plate layout for a Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit assay in 96-well format is
illustrated below:

A

1
S1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12S9 S17 S25 S33 S41 S49 S57 S65 S73 S81 S89

B

S2 S10 S18 S26 S34 S42 S50 S58 S66 S74 S82 S90

C

S3 S11 S19 S27 S35 S43 S51 S59 S67 S75 S83 S91

D

S4 S12 S20 S28 S36 S44 S52 S60 S68 S76 S84 S92

E

S5 S13 S21 S29 S37 S45 S53 S61 S69 S77 S85 S93F

S6 S14 S22 S30 S38 S46 S54 S62 S70 S78 S86 S94G

S7 S15 S23 S31 S39 S47 S55 S63 S71 S79 S87 NTC

H

S8 S16 S24 S32 S40 S48 S56 S64 S72 S80 S88 PC
S# = Test Sample
NTC = No Template Control
PC = CV Positive Control

5. Firmly seal the PCR plate with an optical sealing film.
6. Briefly vortex the PCR plate and centrifuge to eliminate bubbles and bring any
droplets to the bottom of the well.
7. Place the PCR plate on ice.

6

384-Well rRT-PCR Setup:✓ Before starting, thaw frozen reagents on ice, mix 10 times by inversion, centrifuge
briefly, and place back on ice.
✓ Avoid exposing the 2X CV Mix and reactions to direct light and keep the PCR plateon ice during preparation.
✓ To prevent contamination, aliquot the 2X CV Mix in the 384-well PCR plate before
handling any test samples or controls.
1. Add 5 µl of 2X CV Mix to each well.
2. Add 5 µl of every RNA sample to be tested except CV Positive Control and NTC.
3. Add 5 µl of CV Positive Control to one dedicated well in each plate.
4. Add 5 µl of extracted No Template Control (NTC) to one dedicated well in eachplate.
Example plate layout for a Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit assay in 384-well format is
illustrated below:
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
S1 S17 S33 S49 S65 S81 S97 S113 S129 S145 S161 S177 S193 S209 S225 S241 S257 S273 S289 S305 S321 S337 S353 S369
S2 S18 S34 S50 S66 S82 S98 S114 S130 S146 S162 S178 S194 S210 S226 S242 S258 S274 S290 S306 S322 S338 S354 S370
S3 S19 S35 S51 S67 S83 S99 S115 S131 S147 S163 S179 S195 S211 S227 S243 S259 S275 S291 S307 S323 S339 S355 S371
S4 S20 S36 S52 S68 S84 S100 S116 S132 S148 S164 S180 S196 S212 S228 S244 S260 S276 S292 S308 S324 S340 S356 S372
S5 S21 S37 S53 S69 S85 S101 S117 S133 S149 S165 S181 S197 S213 S229 S245 S261 S277 S293 S309 S325 S341 S357 S373
S6 S22 S38 S54 S70 S86 S102 S118 S134 S150 S166 S182 S198 S214 S230 S246 S262 S278 S294 S310 S326 S342 S358 S374
S7 S23 S39 S55 S71 S87 S103 S119 S135 S151 S167 S183 S199 S215 S231 S247 S263 S279 S295 S311 S327 S343 S359 S375
S8 S24 S40 S56 S72 S88 S104 S120 S136 S152 S168 S184 S200 S216 S232 S248 S264 S280 S296 S312 S328 S344 S360 S376
S9 S25 S41 S57 S73 S89 S105 S121 S137 S153 S169 S185 S201 S217 S233 S249 S265 S281 S297 S313 S329 S345 S361 S377
S10 S26 S42 S58 S74 S90 S106 S122 S138 S154 S170 S186 S202 S218 S234 S250 S266 S282 S298 S314 S330 S346 S362 S378
S11 S27 S43 S59 S75 S91 S107 S123 S139 S155 S171 S187 S203 S219 S235 S251 S267 S283 S299 S315 S331 S347 S363 S379
S12 S28 S44 S60 S76 S92 S108 S124 S140 S156 S172 S188 S204 S220 S236 S252 S268 S284 S300 S316 S332 S348 S364 S380
S13 S29 S45 S61 S77 S93 S109 S125 S141 S157 S173 S189 S205 S221 S237 S253 S269 S285 S301 S317 S333 S349 S365 S381
S14 S30 S46 S62 S78 S94 S110 S126 S142 S158 S174 S190 S206 S222 S238 S254 S270 S286 S302 S318 S334 S350 S366 S382
S15 S31 S47 S63 S79 S95 S111 S127 S143 S159 S175 S191 S207 S223 S239 S255 S271 S287 S303 S319 S335 S351 S367 NTC
S16 S32 S48 S64 S80 S96 S112 S128 S144 S160 S176 S192 S208 S224 S240 S256 S272 S288 S304 S320 S336 S352 S368 PC

S# = Test Sample
NTC = No Template Control
PC = CV Positive Control

5. Firmly seal the PCR plate with an optical sealing film.
6. Briefly vortex the PCR plate and centrifuge to eliminate bubbles and bring any
droplets to the bottom of the well.
7. Place the PCR plate on ice.

7

II.

Real-Time PCR Instrument Setup
Steps of ‘Real-Time PCR Machine Set Up’ are to be performed in an area designatedspecifically for amplification reactions in order to avoid contamination of the sample
processing area.
1.

2.

Using the Real-Time PCR software (Bio-Rad CFX Maestro™ 1.1 Version
4.1.2433.1219 software for the CFX96 or CFX384 Touch™ Real-Time PCR
Detection System), create the following PCR protocol using the following
parameters:

Step

Temperature

1
2
3
4
5
6
7

55 °C
95 °C
95 °C
72 °C
57 °C
Plate Read
END

45 Cycles (Steps 3-6)

Assign each well the corresponding sample names, targets, and fluorophores. 2X
CV Mix contains two different fluorophores.
TargetSARS-CoV-2
RNase P

III.

Time
(min:sec)
15:00
10:00
0:05
0:30
0:30

Fluorophores
HEX™
Quasar® 670

Ex.
535 nm647 nmEm.
556 nm
670 nm3.

Enable all filters required to detect both fluorophores.

4.

Load the PCR plate into the CFX96 or CFX384 Touch™ Real-Time PCR Detection
System (Bio-Rad) and start the PCR protocol

Data Analysis (Bio-Rad CFX Maestro™ 1.1 Version 4.1.2433.1219 software)
The Data Analysis steps described below are for the CFX96 and CFX384 Touch™ RealTime PCR Detection System (Bio-Rad) with the CFX Maestro Software 1.1 Version
4.1.2433.1219. Adjustments to the procedure may be necessary to perform the reaction
using a different real-time PCR instrument and software.
1.

Visually inspect the plate for any issues that occurred during PCR (e.g.
evaporation) and take note of any problems.

2.

Adjust the Baseline Threshold value to 50 RFU for each fluorophore. Under“Settings”, click on “Baseline Threshold”, select “User Defined” and enter 50 into
the user defined field.

3.

Under “Settings”, click on “Baseline Setting”, and select “Apply Fluorescence Drift
Correction.”

4.

Note and record any samples, PC, or NTC with amplification in the HEX™ or
Quasar® 670 channel before 10 cycles. This step is necessary to identify samples
with Ct values < 10 which may be excluded by adjustments made in Step 5.

5.

Exclude the first 10 cycles of the PCR by going to “Settings”, clicking on “Cycles toAnalyze”. Manually enter the range as 10 to 45.

86. If aberrant amplification curves are observed, please refer to the Appendix on page
10 for examples and detailed explanations.
IV.

Interpretation of Results
Guidelines for the Interpretation of Controls written in this section are based upon results
obtained using a CFX96 or CFX384 Touch™ Real-Time PCR Detection System (BioRad). Ct values provided in this section are representative and may vary between
different real-time PCR instruments.
All controls should be examined prior to the interpretation of the test samples:
CV Positive Control (PC): The CV Positive Control will show amplification signals inboth the HEX™ and Quasar® 670 channels, which detect the presence of SARS-CoV2 and RNase P, respectively. Signals generated from the CV Positive Control areconsidered valid if the cycle threshold (Ct) value is ≤ 40 for the virus target (HEX™
channel) and ≤ 30 for RNase P (Quasar® 670 channel) when using the recommended
systems settings. If signals for the CV Positive Control are detected after 40
amplification cycles (Ct > 40) for the virus target or after 30 amplification cycles (Ct >30) for RNase P, the control must be replaced with a new aliquot. If this problem is not
resolved, the whole kit must be replaced with a new one.
No Template Control (NTC): The No Template Control sample will show noamplification signal for either the virus target (HEX™ channel) or RNase P (Quasar
670® channel). The No Template Control sample will be considered valid if noamplification occurs in either the HEX™ or Quasar® 670 channels. If amplification
occurs in either channel, contamination of extraction and/or rRT-PCR reagents may
have occurred, and reagents must be replaced.

SampleSARS-CoV-2(HEX™)

RNase P
(Quasar® 670)

InterpretationNo
Template
Control

No amplification

No amplification

Valid

CV Positive
ControlCt ≤ 40

Ct ≤ 30

Valid

Ct ≤ 40

Any amplification

Positive

No amplification or
Ct > 40

Ct < 40

Negative

No amplification

No amplification or
Ct ≥ 40

Invalid

Test Sample

9Appendices
Examples of Normal and Aberrant Amplification Curves
Note that the first 10 cycles of PCR have been excluded from the graphs, the baseline
threshold for both fluorophores have been adjusted to 50 RFU, and fluorescence drift
correction has been applied as described on page 8-9.

2

1

Figure 1. Curves A through E are examplesof normal amplification curves for the SARSCoV-2 target. Curve F (red) represents the
SARS-CoV-2 signal in the CV Positive
Control. Curve G (blue) represents the No
Template Control.

3

Figure 2. Examples of samples with normal
amplification curves for the IC (RNase P) are
shown in brown. The IC curve for the CV
Positive Control is indicated in red (A) ant the
No Template Control in blue (B).

4

Figure 3. Curves A, B, and C are examples
of weak signals for the SARS-CoV-2 target
that would not be considered a positive test
result (Ct > 40). For these samples, a repeatrRT-PCR may be performed to confirm theresults. Note that the Y axis scale has beenadjusted (magnified) to better visualize thedifference between curves.

10

Figure 4. Curve A is an example of anaberrant amplification for the SARS-CoV-2
target. Curves B and C are examples ofaberrant or weak positive amplification. In
cases like these, results should be confirmedby repeat testing. The Y axis scale has beenadjusted (magnified) to better visualize detailsof the curves.

Troubleshooting Guide

Problem

Reduction in volume observedin the wells after rRT-PCR.

Possible Causes and Suggested Actions•

Cause: Evaporation of rRT-PCR reaction mixture
due to improper sealing of the PCR plate.

•

Action: Record the wells with reduced volume
and proceed with normal analysis. Repeat rRTPCR on samples experiencing evaporation if
results are invalid.
Cause: Presence of air bubbles in the reaction,
poor quality sample, incorrect setup, orcompromised reagents.
Action: Record the wells and fluorophores thatshow aberrant amplification. Samples that exhibitaberrant amplification should be repeated todetermine a conclusive result. Re-extraction of
the sample or use of new reagents may benecessary if re-testing the sample does notproduce a clear signal.
Cause: Incorrect rRT-PCR set-up or the Quick
SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit reagents may havebeen compromised (e.g. improper storage ormore than 5 freeze-thaw cycles).
Action: Replace the control. If the problem
persists, the entire kit should be replaced.
Cause: Incorrect rRT-PCR setup or the Quick
SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit reagents may havebeen compromised (e.g. improper storage ormore than 5 freeze-thaw cycles).
Action: Replace the control. If the problem
persists, the entire kit should be replaced.
Cause: Contamination from the environment,
contamination of extraction and/or rRT-PCR
reagents, or well-to-well cross contamination.
Action: Clean and decontaminate all surfaces
and instruments. Ensure that filter tips are usedduring the procedure and changed between
samples. Ensure that extraction and rRT-PCR
setup is properly executed. Repeat extraction
and rRT-PCR with new reagents including all
required controls.

•
Aberrant amplification after
pre-analytical steps havebeen executed (page 8-9).
Please see examples ofaberrant and normal
amplification curves on page
10.

•

•
SARS-Cov-2 signal in CV
Positive Control detected after
40 Cycles.

••

RNase P signal in CV Positive
Control detected after 30
Cycles.

••

SARS-CoV-2 and/or RNase P
amplification in the No
Template Control (NTC)•11

Limitations of Procedures
Optimum performance of this kit requires upper and lower respiratory tract specimens, andoral fluids collected in DNA/RNA Shield™ (Zymo Research, Cat. R1107, R1109, R1124,
R1210), extracted using the Quick-DNA/RNA Viral MagBead Kit (Zymo Research, Cat.
R2140, R2141), both manually or automated (using the KingFisher Flex; Thermo Fisher
Scientific), and analyzed using the Bio-Rad CFX96 Touch™ and the CFX384 Touch™ RealTime PCR Detection Systems and the Bio-Rad CFX Maestro™ 1.1 Version 4.1.2433.1219
software (Bio-Rad). Variations in any component of the validation workflow indicated above
may results in changes in performance characteristics of the Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex
Kit.
Detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA may be affected by sample collection methods, patient
factors (e.g. presence of symptoms), and/or stage of infection.
False-negative results may arise from improper collection, shipping, and/or storage of
specimen.
Pooled sample testing may decrease the sensitivity of the Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit
since it lowers the volume of each individual sample that is analyzed.
Performance of the test was established in sputum. A shift in Ct was observed for all targets
at high mucin concentrations. Therefore, high mucin concentrations at or above 0.1% (≥ 1
mg/ml) may result in invalid results.
The impacts of vaccines, antiviral therapeutics, antibiotics, chemotherapeutic or
immunosuppressant drugs have not been evaluated.
As with any molecular test, mutations within the target regions detected by the Quick SARSCoV-2 Multiplex Kit could affect primer and/or probe binding resulting in failure to detect thepresence of virus.
The performance of this SARS-CoV-2 assay was established using sputum. Saliva, Nasal,
nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal and mid-turbinate swabs, BAL and tracheal aspirates arealso considered acceptable specimen types for use with the SARS-CoV-2 assay but
performance has not been established. Testing of nasal and mid-turbinate nasal swabs (selfcollected at a healthcare site or collected by a healthcare provider) is limited to patients withsymptoms of COVID-19. Results should be interpreted by a trained professional in
conjunction with the patient’s history and clinical signs and symptoms, and epidemiologicalrisk factors.
Negative results do not preclude infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus and should not be thesole basis of a patient treatment/management or public health decision. Follow up testingshould be performed according to the current Health authorities’ recommendations.
•••

Members of the Infectious disease laboratory should be trained to perform this assay.
A false negative result may occur if a specimen is improperly collected, transported, or
handled. False negative results may also occur if amplification inhibitors are present in thespecimen or if inadequate numbers of organisms are present in the specimen.
This test cannot rule out diseases caused by other bacterial or viral pathogens.

12Performance Characteristics
This insert contains instructions for the Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit. The Quick SARSCoV-2 Multiplex Kit has been validated using upper and lower respiratory tract specimens
collected in DNA/RNA Shield™ (Zymo Research, cat. R1107-E, R1109-E, R1210-E). All
samples were extracted using the Quick-DNA/RNA Viral Magbead (Zymo Research, cat.
R2140-E, R2141-E) extraction kit by both manual and automated procedures. Automatedextraction was performed on the KingFisher Flex Purification System (Thermo Fisher
Scientific). Real-time RT-PCR was performed using the CFX96 and CFX384 Touch RealTime PCR Detection System (Bio-Rad) with CFX Maestro™ 1.1 Version 4.1.2433.1219
software.
Deviation from the validated workflow described above may results in changes to theperformance of the Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit.
Detailed information about the validation workflow and protocols are available upon request
at tech@zymoresearch.com
I. Limit of Detection (LoD) – Analytical Sensitivity
The LoD of the Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit utilizing the entire test system from sample
preparation to detection, has been determined. A preliminary LoD, was determined using
heat-inactivated SARS-CoV-2, strain USA-WA1/2020 (VR-1986HK, ATCC) spiked into
sputum collected using the DNA/RNA Shield™ Saliva/Sputum Collection Kit. Heatinactivated virus was quantified by ATCC using quantitative RT-PCR and reported as copies
per milliliter (copies/ml). The preliminary LoD study was performed using automated nucleic
acid extraction of sputum samples containing 10-fold dilutions of virus from 8.33 x 104 to 0
copies/ml. All samples were processed using the Quick-DNA/RNA Viral Magbead (Zymo
Research Corp.) extraction kit automated on the KingFisher Flex Purification System(Thermo Fisher Scientific). Real-time RT-PCR was performed using the Bio-Rad CFX96
Touch Real-Time PCR Detection System. The preliminary LoD was determined to be 83
copies/ml (5 copies/rxn), the lowest concentration for which 5/5 independent replicates tested
positive for SARS-CoV-2 (Table 1).
Table 1: Preliminary LoD study in sputum specimens using automated extraction

The LoD of the assay was confirmed for both manual and automated nucleic acid extraction
methods using sputa as a clinical matrix. Heat-inactivated SARS-CoV-2 was spiked into
negative sputa samples and 20 replicates were independently processed for LoD
determination. The lowest concentration for which all 5 replicates were positive in the
preliminary LoD evaluation (i.e. 83 copies/ml) was used as a starting point for theconfirmatory LoD study. Testing of 83 copies/mL could not confirm the tentative LoD;
therefore, a concentration 2-fold above 83 copies/mL was also tested. The final LoD for which≥ 19/20 replicates tested positive for both manual and automated nucleic acid extraction
methods was determined to be 167 copies/ml (10 copies/rxn) (Table 2). Results are
summarized in Table 3.

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Table 2: Confirmatory LoD for sputum specimens

Table 3: Confirmatory LoD Study - Summary

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II. Clinical Evaluation
A clinical evaluation was performed using 30 SARS-CoV-2 positive and 30 negative sputum
specimens collected using the DNA/RNA Shield™ Saliva/Sputum Collection Kit. Specimens
were collected from patients experiencing one or more symptoms of respiratory infection
under the supervision of a healthcare provider. SARS-CoV-2 status was determined using
the Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit and a comparator rRT-PCR assay authorized by the
FDA for emergency use. Results are summarized in Table 4.
Table 4: Clinical Evaluation Summary

III. Transport Medium Study
Additional transport medias commonly used for SARS-CoV-2 testing were evaluated for theircompatibility for use with Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit compared to DNA/RNA Shield™.
Performance was evaluated using sputum spiked into each transport medium (listed in Table5) to a final concentration of 20%, which represents a complex clinical matrix equivalent to aswab specimen. SARS-CoV-2 low positive samples were created by spiking in 334 copies/ml(2X LoD) of heat-inactivated SARS-CoV-2 into the clinical matrix. All samples were extractedusing an automated method. Ct values for both SARS-CoV-2 and the internal control for eachtransport medium are shown in Table 6. The average Ct values for each transport medium
were within 1 Ct value of DNA/RNA Shield™, indicating that all transport medias tested arecompatible for use with the Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit.
Table 5. List of transport medias tested

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Table 6. Results from SARS-CoV-2 negative and low positive samples collected indifferent transport medias

VI. Analytical Sensitivity and Specificity
The studies below were performed during validation of the Quick SARS-CoV-2 rRT-PCR Kit(Zymo Research, cat. R3011), which contains components and primer and probe sequences
identical to the Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit (cat. R3013). The primers and probes usedin both kits are listed above in Table 7. Data shown in Tables 8 – 16 include results fromonly the primers and probe which are included in the Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit.
Inclusivity (Analytical Sensitivity)
In silico inclusivity analysis of the oligo sets for SARS-CoV-2 (taxonomy ID 2697049) was
performed using multiple sequence alignment of the individual SARS-CoV-2 primers andprobe against all SARS-CoV-2 N gene sequences found in the NCBI database (1,354 in total
as of April 24, 2020). The primers and probe correspond to CDC’s primers and probe withunmodified sequence. Each primer and probe was found to have single nucleotide
mismatches within a small number (≤ 0.74%) of the N gene sequences analyzed (Table 8).
None of the mismatches occurred within the last five 3’ nucleotides of any of the primers,
reducing the potential detrimental effect of those mismatches on PCR efficiency. Overall, thenumber of sequences with unfavorable mismatches is too small to impact the inclusivity(analytical sensitivity) of the test.

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Table 7. Primers and probes used in the Quick SARS-CoV-2 rRT-PCR Kit and Quick
SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit. All primers and probes with the same name have identicalsequence.
Quick SARS-CoV-2 rRT-PCR Kit(cat. R3011)
CV Mix 1 (SARS-CoV-2)
SARS-CoV-2 Target 1
CV1_Fw
CV1_Rv
CV1_PB (HEX)SARS-CoV-2 Target 2CV2_Fw

Quick SARS-CoV-2 Multiplex Kit(cat. R3013)
2X CV Mix (SARS-CoV-2 and IC)
SARS-CoV-2 Target
CV1_Fw
CV1_Rv
CV1_PB (HEX)IC Target (RNase P)
RP-Fw

CV2_Rv
CV2_PB (HEX)SARS-CoV-2 Target 3
CV3_Fw
CV3_Rv
CV3_PB (HEX)CV Mix 2 (IC, RNase P)
RP-Fw
RP_Rv
RP_PB (Quasar 670)

RP_Rv
RP_PB (Quasar 670)

Table 8. Primer and probe single nucleotide mismatches to SARS-CoV-2 N genesequences. SARS-CoV-2 N gene accession numbers in bold have single nucleotide
mismatches that occur at the same position within the primer/probe.

Cross-reactivity (Analytical Specificity)
Cross reactivity studies were performed using the NCBI Basic Alignment Search Tool
(BLAST) to identify the largest regions of homology between the primers and probe to the
genomes indicated (Table 9). Homology ≥ 80% was found for one primer with Neisseria
meningitidis. A microbial interference study using samples containing 1 x 106 Neisseria
meningitis cells with and without 3X LoD (750 GEC/ml) of whole genome SARS-CoV-2 RNA
showed no interference (false positive or false negative result) from this microorganism withthe test (Table 10).
In silico analysis showed homology of one primer and probe to the closely related SARSCoV; however, since one primer has only 40% homology to SARS-CoV, the primers andprobe used in this test are not expected to detect SARS-CoV. The primers and probe usedin this test were found to have little cross-reactivity with endemic coronaviruses (229E, NL63,
HKU1, and OC43) or MERS-CoV.

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Table 9. In silico cross-reactivity analysis of primers and probe

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Table 10: Microbial Interference Testing. Ct values are for SARS-CoV-2.

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Symbols Legend
Collect sample by

See instruction manual

Catalog numbernContains sufficient for <n>tests

Manufacturer
Package contains
Storage instructions
Reagent
Lot number
Positive Control
Do not reuse

Keep away from sunlight

FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY

Technical Support
For technical support, call Zymo Research Corp. Technical Support at 1-949-679-1190 ext. 3, email
tech@zymoresearch.com

CFX Maestro is a registered trademark of Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.
KingFisher is a registered trademark of Thermo Fisher Scientific.

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March 2020
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