Overview of Digene's Hybrid Capture^® 2 Technology

Digene's proprietary Hybrid Capture^® 2 (hc2) signal–amplification molecular technology serves as the platform for our gene–based tests. The Hybrid Capture^® technology uses specific RNA probes, hybridization, antibody capture and signal amplification to allow rapid, standardized testing of the genetic material of infectious agents in virtually any laboratory setting. Hybrid Capture^® 2 technology achieves clinically relevant levels of detection, using a user–friendly, cost–effective method. Reliable detection is achieved without the need for dedicated and isolated lab space, sophisticated laboratory expertise, or concern related to inhibition and contamination.

Digene's Hybrid Capture^® 2 System Offers:

• Same–day, objective results using a microplate test format.
• High–throughput automation for handling increasing test volumes.
• Sensitivity comparable to many other target–amplification technologies, without the complexity of these other test methods.
• User–friendly technique that facilitates the production of consistent, reproducible results.
• Minimal required specimen preparation, allowing samples to be processed quickly and efficiently.
• Protection against cross–contamination problems that can occur with some target–amplification assays.

Hybrid Capture^® tests are available to detect human papillomavirus (HPV), chlamydia trachomatis (CT), neisseria gonorrhea (GC), and cytomegalovirus (CMV); the latter is available in tube format only.

How Hybrid Capture^® Technology Works:

The Hybrid Capture^® System is a signal–amplification assay that uses a technique combining antibody capture and chemiluminescent signal detection. The basic steps of the Hybrid Capture^® assay are outlined below:

Clinical specimens are prepared by adding a base solution, which disrupts the virus or bacteria and releases target DNA.

Presence or absence of target DNA is read from the results of the chemiluminescent reaction.

The Hybrid Capture^® System is configured to adapt to virtually any workflow situation and is suitable for most laboratory staff skill levels. Both small and large specimen batches can be processed cost–effectively.

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