Supporting COVID-19 Research
Throughout the pandemic, New England Biolabs has worked to keep our employees and their families safe, and has maintained business continuity in support of our many customers around the globe. Our manufacturing and distribution teams continue to be fully operational, we have expanded our production capabilities, and we are working closely with our suppliers and distribution partners to ensure uninterrupted access to our products and technical support. We are also following the guidelines of local and national health organizations in order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Finally, we have implemented an internal SARS-CoV-2 testing program and carefully monitor changes so that we can adjust safety protocols as needed.
It’s time to think differently
NEB’s products are available for research purposes only. However, we are supplying and supporting customers who are working diligently to develop better diagnostic tools and vaccines for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. If you looking for hiqh-quality reagents and consistent supply chain for your diagnostic tools (lab-based or point-of-care) or vaccine development, it’s time to consider NEB as your partner.
Select an application to learn more:
 |
RNA ExtractionExtraction of RNA is often the first step in viral detection assays and has become an increasingly important laboratory technique in the midst of this global pandemic. Though NEB does not offer a kit specifically designed for viral RNA extraction, both the Monarch Total RNA Miniprep Kit and the Monarch RNA Cleanup Kits have been used successfully to extract total RNA, including viral RNA, from clinically-relevant samples. |
Monarch® Total RNA Miniprep Kit (NEB #T2010)
Developed for total RNA extraction from several sample types, this kit can also be used for viral RNA extraction.
- Successfully used on saliva and buccal swabs as well as simulated nasopharyngeal samples
- New streamlined protocol enables extraction from saliva in under an hour
- Enables sensitive downstream detection using RT-qPCR, RT-LAMP and other methods
Monarch RNA Cleanup Kits (NEB #T2040 and #T2030)
Traditionally used for cleanup applications, these kits have now been validated for extraction, expanding its utility to support viral detection.
- Successfully used for viral RNA extraction from saliva, buccal swabs, and simulated nasopharyngeal swabs, with the addition of DNA/RNA Protection Reagent (NEB #T2011)
- Extremely fast – extraction complete in under 10 minutes
- Enables sensitive downstream detection using RT-qPCR, RT-LAMP and other methods
Monarch RNA purification kits can also be automated on the KingFisher® Flex platforms with minor protocol modifications.
 |
Virus DetectionVirus detection often utilizes nucleic acid amplification to identify the presence of specific sequences in SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA. These methods include RT-qPCR for real time quantitation and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for robust amplification performed at a single reaction temperature. The Primer Monitor (refer to this white paper for more information) tool can be used to identify SARS-CoV-2 variants that may affect COVID-19 assay performance. Variants are tracked as a function of geography and mapped against commonly-used and user-defined primer sets. Users have the option to register to receive notification should variation cross a specified threshold. |
Luna® SARS-CoV-2 RT-qPCR Multiplex Assay Kit (NEB# E3019)
The Luna SARS-CoV-2 RT-qPCR Multiplex Assay Kit is a real-time RT-PCR assay for the qualitative detection of SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid.
- What is the impact of different SARS-CoV-2 variants on this kit? See the new FAQ and view the Primer Monitor (refer to this white paper for more information) tool for up-to-date information on variants mapped against common primer sets.
- Multiplex detection of 2019-nCoV_N1 and 2019-nCoV_N2 targets and human RNase P gene enables high throughput workflows
- Reduce background amplification from genomic DNA by use of a modified RNase P Internal Control reverse primer to target an exon-exon boundary
- Supports sample pooling with minimal loss in sensitivity
Luna RT-qPCR Kits
Luna Universal One-Step RT-qPCR kits offer exceptional sensitivity, reproducibility and RT-qPCR performance. Available for probe- or dye-based detection, Luna kits utilize a novel, thermostable WarmStart RT, which increases reaction specificity. Reaction mixes also contain dUTP, which supports carryover prevention.
Relevant Luna products include:
- Luna Probe One-Step RT-qPCR 4X Mix with UDG (NEB #M3019)
- Luna Universal Probe One-Step RT-qPCR Kit (NEB #E3006)
- Luna Probe One-Step RT-qPCR Kit (No ROX) (NEB #E3007)
- LyoPrime Luna® Probe One-Step RT-qPCR Mix with UDG (NEB #L4001)
SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Colorimetric LAMP Assay Kit (NEB# E2019)
The SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Colorimetric LAMP Assay Kit utilizes loop-mediated isothermal amplification for use in the analysis of SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
- Colorimetric LAMP enables simple, visual detection (pink-to-yellow) of amplification of SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid
- Reduce risk of carryover contamination with UDG and dUTP included in the master mix
- Assay targets N and E regions of the SARS-CoV-2 genome for optimized sensitivity and specificity
WarmStart® Colorimetric LAMP 2X Master Mix with UDG (NEB# M1804)
WarmStart Colorimetric LAMP 2X Master Mix with UDG is an optimized formulation of Bst 2.0 WarmStart DNA Polymerase and WarmStart RTx Reverse Transcriptase in a special low-buffer reaction solution containing a visible pH indicator for rapid and easy detection of LAMP and RT-LAMP reactions. The inclusion of dUTP and thermolabile UDG reduces the possibility of carryover contamination. Thermolabile UDG is completely inactivated at temperatures above 50°C.
- Easily detect amplification with a simple pink-to-yellow color change
- Reduce risk of carryover contamination with thermolabile UDG and dUTP included in the master mix
- Set up reactions at room temperature as WarmStart feature inhibits activity at 25°C
WarmStart Multi-Purpose LAMP/RT-LAMP 2X Master Mix (with UDG) (NEB #M1708)
This master mix features a blend of Bst 2.0 WarmStart DNA Polymerase and WarmStart RTx Reverse Transcriptase in an optimized LAMP buffer solution. It is compatible with different sample input types, enabling multiple detection methods including end-point visualization such as colorimetric detection via a metal indicator (e.g., hydroxynaphthol blue) and real-time fluorescence detection. The inclusion of dUTP and thermolabile UDG reduces the possibility of carryover contamination. Thermolabile UDG is completely inactivated at temperatures above 50°C.
- Compatible with different sample input types and supports multiple detection methods, including hydroxynaphthol blue
- Reduce risk of carryover contamination with thermolabile UDG and dUTP included
- Set up reactions at room temperature as WarmStart feature inhibits activity at 25°C
WarmStart Fluorescent LAMP/RT-LAMP Kit (with UDG) (NEB# E1708)
This kit includes WarmStart Multi-Purpose LAMP/RT-LAMP 2X Master Mix (with UDG) (NEB #M1708) and 50X LAMP Fluorescent Dye (NEB #B1700) for real-time fluorescence measurement of LAMP/RT-LAMP reactions. The inclusion of dUTP and thermolabile UDG reduces the possibility of carryover contamination. Thermolabile UDG is completely inactivated at temperatures above 50°C.
- Fully buffered master mix is compatible with different sample input types
- Includes 50X LAMP fluorescent dye for real-time fluorescence measurement of LAMP/RT-LAMP reactions
- Reduce risk of carryover contamination with thermolabile UDG and dUTP included
- Set up reactions at room temperature as WarmStart feature inhibits activity at 25°C
 |
Sequencing & EpidemiologySequencing of SARS-CoV-2 is becoming ever more important in the COVID-19 pandemic, to identify and track emerging variants. At the same time, basic and clinical research is continuing, and a growing number of methods are being developed to address these applications, including host genomic sequencing and metagenomic sequencing. |
NEBNext ARTIC products for Illumina® and Oxford Nanopore Technologies® sequencing
- Improved uniformity of SARS-CoV-2 genome coverage depth
- Streamlined, high-efficiency protocols
- Effective with a wide range of viral genome inputs (10-10,000 copies)
- Available for Illumina and Oxford Nanopore Technologies sequencing platforms
- Single RT conditions for all input amounts
- No requirement for amplicon normalization prior to library preparation (Illumina-compatible kits)
- Optional use control human primers provided
- NEBNext ARTIC SARS-CoV-2 FS Library Prep Kit (Illumina) (for ~150 bp libraries) (NEB #E7658)
- NEBNext ARTIC SARS-CoV-2 Library Prep Kit (Illumina) (for ~400 bp libraries) (NEB #E7650)
- NEBNext ARTIC SARS-CoV-2 Companion Kit (Oxford Nanopore Technologies) (NEB #E7660)
Oxford Nanopore Technologies® Sequencing
The following reagents are being recommended in a number of third party COVID-19 sequencing protocols, including “PCR tiling of COVID-19 virus” in Oxford Nanopore Technologies’ Nanopore Community, and the ARTIC protocol.
- Q5® Hot Start High-Fidelity 2X Master Mix (NEB #M0494)
- Random Primer Mix (NEB #S1330S)
- Deoxynucleotide (dNTP) Solution Mix (NEB #N0447)
- NEBNext® Ultra™ II End Repair / dA-Tailing Module (NEB #E7546)
- NEBNext Ultra II Ligation Module (NEB #E7595)
- NEBNext Quick Ligation Module (NEB #E6056)
- LunaScript® RT SuperMix Kit (NEB #E3010)
Illumina® Sequencing
A number of methods are being developed using the Illumina platform for virus, metagenomic and host sequencing, as well as diagnostics. These include ARTIC-based virus enrichment protocols and novel workflows.
- NEBNext Ultra II RNA Library Prep Kit for Illumina (NEB #E7770)
- NEBNext Ultra II Directional RNA Library Prep Kit for Illumina (NEB #E7760)
- NEBNext Ultra II DNA Library Prep Kit for Illumina (NEB #E7645)
- NEBNext Ultra II RNA First Strand Synthesis Module (NEB #E7771)
- NEBNext Ultra II Non-Directional RNA Second Strand Synthesis Module (NEB #E6111)
- NEBNext rRNA Depletion Kit v2 (Human/Mouse/Rat) (NEB #E7400)
- LunaScript RT SuperMix Kit (NEB #E3010)
 |
Additional citations featuring NEBNext products |
 |
Viral BiologyProteolytic cleavage between the S1 and S2 unit of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 is an important part of the process to allow viral entry into the host cell after binding to the surface receptor. A subsequent cleavage on the S2 unit further triggers membrane fusion. Furin is one of the key actors in a family of proteases responsible for these steps. Furin is used to study how different mutations and variations on the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, as well as among closely related coronaviruses, respond to this proteolytic cleavage. The susceptibility of the spike protein to furin is essential to understand not only the viral biology, but also COVID-19’s transmissibility. The spike protein is additionally extensively glycosylated (up to 22 N-glycosylation sites). These glycans have profound implications in modulating cell entry and membrane fusion, as well as host immune response. These glycosylations can be analyzed and profiled by PNGase F, Trypsin and Endoproteinase LysC. |
Furin (NEB # P8077)
Furin is a ubiquitous subtilisin-like proprotein convertase with a minimal cleavage site of Arg-X-X-Arg˅. The enzyme prefers the site Arg-X-Lys/Arg-Arg˅.
- Recombinant
- Major processing enzyme of the secretory pathway and is localized in the trans-golgi network
- Substrates of furin include blood clotting factors, serum proteins, growth factor receptors, such as the insulin-like growth factor receptor, and the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2
PNGase F
PNGase F is an amidase that cleaves between the innermost GlcNAc and asparagine residues of high mannose, hybrid, and complex oligosaccharides and is the most effective enzymatic method for removing almost all N-linked oligosaccharides from glycoproteins.
NEB offers a broad selection of PNGase F products, all of which are highly pure for reproducible results.
- Recombinant enzyme
- ≥95% purity determined by SDS-PAGE and intact ESI-MS
- Stringent testing for contaminating exoglycosidase, endoglycosidase and proteolytic activity
Not sure if Rapid PNGase F is the right choice? Learn more about the different PNGase F options that are available from NEB.
Trypsin-ultra™, Mass Spectrometry Grade (NEB # P8101S)
Trypsin-ultra, Mass Spectrometry Grade is a serine endopeptidase, which selectively cleaves peptide bonds C-terminal to lysine and arginine residues.
- Analyze complex proteomes with minimal autolysis
- Compatible for simultaneous co-digestion with PNGase F and endoproteinase LysC
- Suitable for both in-gel and solution digests
Endoproteinase LysC (NEB # P8109S)
Endoproteinase LysC is a serine endoproteinase, which cleaves peptide bonds at the carboxyl side of lysine.
- Analyze complex proteomes
- Compatible for simultaneous co-digestion with trypsin
- Suitable for both in-gel and solution digests
 |
Vaccine DevelopmentmRNA-based vaccines are an emerging alternative to conventional vaccine approaches. Unlike protein-based vaccines, mRNA vaccines involve introduction of an mRNA sequence encoding disease-specific antigens. Once delivered into the cells, they get translated by the cellular machinery, resulting in the synthesis of protein antigens. These antigens are recognized by the immune system, and immune responses are mounted. Successful mRNA vaccines for infectious diseases will prompt protective immunity from possible infection. Several mRNA vaccine candidates are in development for SARS-CoV-2. mRNA vaccines can be rapidly and scalably produced in vitro using enzymes to transcribe and modify mRNA. |
Reagents for mRNA synthesis
NEB’s portfolio of research-grade and GMP-grade* reagents enables bench-scale to commercial-scale mRNA manufacturing, enabling a seamless transition to large-scale therapeutic mRNA manufacturing.
 |
Learn more about our GMP-grade in vitro transcription reagents |
Product Citation Tool
View citations that utilize NEB products using the Product Citation Tool. Refine your search by updating search field and then selecting a filter type. For your convenience, COVID-19 has been selected as a filter on this page.
Powered by Bioz
"GMP-grade" is a branding term NEB uses to describe reagents manufactured or finished at NEB’s Rowley facility. The Rowley facility was designed to manufacture reagents under more
rigorous infrastructure and process controls to achieve more stringent product specifications and customer requirements. Reagents manufactured at NEB’s Rowley facility are
manufactured in compliance with ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 quality management system standards. However, at this time, NEB does not manufacture or sell products known as
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), nor does NEB manufacture its products in compliance with all of the Current Good Manufacturing Practice regulations.
Products and content are covered by one or more patents, trademarks and/or copyrights owned or controlled by New England Biolabs, Inc (NEB). The use of trademark symbols does not necessarily indicate that the name is trademarked in the country where it is being read; it indicates where the content was originally developed. The use of this product may require the buyer to obtain additional third-party intellectual property rights for certain applications. For more information, please email busdev@neb.com.
Welcome to the COVID-19 researcher spotlight
Hear from scientists around the world as they discuss publications related to COVID-19, new protocols and techniques for detection and characterization, as well as how the scientific community is coming together to address this pandemic...all in 19 minutes or less!
Listen as we interview Dr. Peter Hotez, a physician-scientist and recognized expert in neglected tropical diseases and vaccine development. We discuss Dr. Hotez’s new book, Preventing the Next Pandemic: Vaccine Diplomacy in a Time of Anti-science, and his thoughts on the current COVID-19 pandemic, vaccine development and manufacturing, as well as democratizing vaccine distribution.
Listen nowPast researcher spotlight topics
Catch up on previous discussions related to COVID-19 research in these podcasts and videos:
- COVID-19 Researcher Spotlight: Interview with Bas Oude Munnink
- COVID-19 Researcher Spotlight: Interview with Bijoyita Roy
- COVID-19 Researcher Spotlight: Interview with Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Scientists
- COVID-19 Researcher Spotlight: Interview with Joshua Quick
- COVID-19 Researcher Spotlight: Interview with Chris Mason
- Lessons from Lab and Life Podcast – Interview with Naama Geva-Zatorsky: Applying LAMP to unpurified swab and saliva samples
- COVID-19 Researcher Spotlight: Interview with Nathan Tanner
- COVID-19 Researcher Spotlight: Interview with Greg Patton
- Lessons from Lab and Life Podcast – Interview with the founders of STOPCovid: Feng Zhang, Omar Abudayyeh and Jonathan Gootenberg
- Lessons from Lab and Life Podcast – Interview with Brian Rabe: Applying RT-LAMP to develop a fast SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic assay
- NEB TV Ep. 23 – Colorimetric LAMP in point-of-care diagnostics
Doing COVID-19 related research?
Let us know what you are working on, so we can keep you informed on new COVID-19 related products and publications available from NEB.
Stay InformedInterested in larger quantities?
Requests to obtain any of these products in
larger quantities in connection with the COVID-19
crisis should be forwarded to bulks@neb.com.
For more general inquiries or questions, please
feel free to contact us at info@neb.com.
