Canon Medical Systems announced the start of development of a rapid genetic testing system for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). This project is part of a research program focusing on the development of diagnostic methods for COVID-19, led by the Japan Agency for Medical Research. Canon Medical was selected to participate in this research program in cooperation with Nagasaki University.
The test and the reagents being developed for COVID-19 RNA testing is based on the LAMP method developed by Eiken Chemical Co., and are to be used with a compact isothermal amplified gene fluorescent detector manufactured by Canon Medical to detect the presence of virus. Compared to the conventional test method of real-time PCR, the LAMP method allows for detection of the virus to be performed more easily and quickly, which makes it suitable for testing in local areas where infection is prevalent.