Respiratory RT-PCR Panels: Viral and Bacterial Targets

Respiratory infections can involve multiple viral and bacterial pathogens with overlapping clinical presentations. Real-time PCR (RT-PCR) technology enables laboratories to detect selected nucleic acid targets through amplification and fluorescence-based detection.

Multiplex respiratory RT-PCR panels combine multiple predefined targets into a single testing workflow, helping research laboratories evaluate respiratory pathogen targets while reducing the need for separate single-target reactions.

The Accutest® Standard Respiratory RT-PCR Panels are designed for research applications and offer predefined viral and bacterial target menus in multiple reaction formats. Laboratories can review the available panels based on their research objectives, instrumentation, fluorescence channels, and workflow requirements.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

Standard Respiratory RT-PCR Panels I and II

Accutest® Standard Respiratory RT-PCR Panels I and II offer two predefined target menus for molecular research applications. Both panels share 22 respiratory viral and bacterial target entries and include RNase P (RPP30) as an internal control.

Comparing Respiratory Panel I and Panel II

Both panels include SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A, Influenza B, RSV A/B, Bordetella pertussis, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and other predefined respiratory targets.

The most appropriate configuration depends on the laboratory’s research objectives, required targets, instrumentation, and workflow.

Explore the Accutest Standard Respiratory RT-PCR Panels for the complete target menus, available configurations, and ordering information.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

Key Advantages

• Predefined Target Menus: Select from two established respiratory panels containing viral and bacterial targets for research applications.
• Multiplex Testing Workflow: Evaluate multiple predefined molecular targets without designing individual assays from scratch.
• Flexible Formats: Available options include pre-spotted 96-well and 384-well plates and tube formats.
• Instrument Compatibility Review: Jant’s molecular team can help assess instrument models, fluorescence channels, and format requirements before ordering.

Viral vs. Bacterial Respiratory Infections

Not all respiratory infections are caused by viruses. Some result from bacteria, requiring different treatment approaches.

• Viral Infections: Include COVID-19, influenza, RSV, and common cold coronaviruses. They spread easily and often resolve on their own. Antiviral medications may help in some cases.
• Bacterial Infections: Include pneumonia, pertussis (whooping cough), and Legionella pneumophila infections. These often require antibiotics and can lead to complications if untreated.

Because symptoms overlap, distinguishing between viral and bacterial infections based on symptoms alone is difficult. This is why accurate testing is essential.

Choosing the Right Respiratory RT-PCR Panel

Selecting a respiratory RT-PCR panel begins with identifying the molecular targets relevant to your research. Preconfigured multiplex panels provide established target menus, while custom RT-PCR panels may be appropriate when a project requires a different combination of targets.

When evaluating a panel, laboratories should consider:

• Target selection: Review the viral and bacterial targets included in each panel.
• Instrument compatibility: Confirm the thermal cycler model and available fluorescence channels.
• Reaction format: Select the appropriate 96-well, 384-well, or tube configuration.
• Workflow requirements: Consider nucleic acid extraction, reaction preparation, and sample throughput.

Explore Accutest Respiratory RT-PCR Panels

JantDX offers predefined respiratory molecular research panels, including:

• Standard Respiratory RT-PCR Panels I and II — Explore the full viral and bacterial target menus.
• Standard COVID/Flu/RSV RT-PCR Panel — Explore the focused respiratory viral target menu and available configurations.

For additional information about panel configurations and instrument compatibility, contact JantDX to discuss your research requirements.

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “U.S. Influenza Surveillance Report.” CDC, 2025, https://www.cdc.gov/fluview/surveillance/2025-week-05.html.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Respiratory Virus Data.” CDC, 21 Feb. 2025, https://www.cdc.gov/respiratory-viruses/data/index.html.