MGI Tech Launches ATOPlex Fast NiV Whole-genome Targeted Sequencing Packages to Combat Nipah Virus Outbreak in India
Shenzhen, China – In response to the recent surge in Nipah virus (NiV) cases in West Bengal, India, MGI Tech Co., Ltd. (“MGI”), a company dedicated to developing core tools and technologies that drive innovation in life sciences, today announced the launch of its ATOPlex Fast NiV whole-genome targeted sequencing packages. For Nipah virus surveillance, MGI now offers both targeted sequencing and metagenomic sequencing approaches, available for global order.
The Nipah virus, a zoonotic pathogen prioritised by the World Health Organization (WHO), poses a serious public health threat, with a high fatality rate of 40–75%. It can be transmitted via fruit bats, infected animals, or human-to-human contact. Its long incubation period and potential for severe outcomes, including fatal encephalitis, make genomic surveillance critical for outbreak containment.
MGI’s ATOPlex Fast NiV whole-genome targeted sequencing and metagenomic sequencing solutions cover all scenarios—from precise identification of known pathogens to exploration of unknown pathogens. Reports can be produced in as little as six hours, delivering end-to-end support for global public health challenges.
ATOPlex Fast Targeted Sequencing Package: Precision Detection of NiV Strains
The targeted sequencing package enables highly sensitive and specific detection of prevalent NiV strains, including NiV-B (Bangladesh) and NiV-M (Malaysia), directly from challenging samples such as throat swabs, serum, cerebrospinal fluid, and environmental specimens.
High Sensitivity & Efficient Workflow
The package applies optimized multiplex PCR primers to capture full viral genomes, even from low viral load samples, with a library preparation time as short as 3.5 hours. Compatible with MGI’s automated system, it significantly reduces manual input and enables efficient sample processing.
- Dual-Platform Flexibility:
The kit is compatible with both short-read platforms (e.g. E25, G99) and long-read platforms (G100-ER), enabling a wide range of applications, from cost-effective large-scale screening to ultra-rapid emergent detection in under six hours from sample to report. - Bioinformatics Support:
The package includes ATOPlex MMRS and MGAP software, enabling rapid data analysis, virus typing, mutation tracking, and phylogenetic analysis. - Rapid Primer Upgrade Design:
MGI’s proprietary ATOPlex Designer algorithm allows rapid updates to primer sets in response to newly emerging viral variants.
MGI Metagenomic Sequencing Package: Unbiased Detection of Unknown Pathogens
For complex infections or suspected co-infections, MGI’s metagenomic sequencing package offers unbiased pathogen detection, enabling comprehensive analysis without prior assumptions.
- Comprehensive Coverage:
Using the MGIEasy Fast RNA Library Prep Set, the package captures all nucleic acids in a sample without prior targeting, enabling simultaneous detection of Nipah virus and other pathogens. - Automated Workflow and Flexible Sequencing:
Automated library preparation instruments (SP-100, SP-960, DNBelab-D4, AIO) enable high-throughput processing while reducing manual labour. The sequencing workflow is compatible with multiple platforms (G99, G50, G400, T1+), allowing flexible platform selection. - Bioinformatics Support:
Powered by PFI and MGAP software, the package enables rapid data quality control, pathogen identification, and genome assembly. - Validated Performance:
This approach has been deployed in previous outbreaks involving Monkeypox virus, Chikungunya virus, and Chlamydia psittaci, supporting public health institutions such as the China CDC in pathogen identification and traceability.
To learn more about MGI’s Nipah virus surveillance solutions, contact us here.
