Phthisis Diagnostics Introduces G-Sphere® Molecular Standards for Norovirus Testing

Noroviruses are the leading cause of gastroenteritis in the United States, across all age groups. They are a genetically diverse group of single-stranded RNA viruses that cause 21 million cases of acute gastroenteritis each year in the United States. Phthisis Diagnostics has launched G-Sphere® Molecular Standards to provide safe, stable, high quality controls for Norovirus GI or Norovirus GII.

Noroviruses can be transmitted by fecal-contaminated food or water, person-to-person contact, or aerosolization of the virus. They are responsible for 58% of domestic food borne illnesses. Norovirus Genogroup I (GI) and Norovirus Genogroup II (GII) are responsible for the majority of cases in humans.

Molecular testing, such as reverse transcription PCR, is the gold standard in detection of Noroviruses because it allows for more sensitive, specific identification. Until now, there was a lack of consistent molecular standards for use in molecular assays.

The G-Sphere® Molecular Standards provide consistency and cGMP-grade standard. They are customizable and are available for virtually any organism and any molecular assay. G-Sphere® Molecular Standards can be used for positive, internal and extraction controls providing flexibility and they are non-hazardous.