LEADing precision in infectious disease diagnostics

The geneLEAD^® VIII [1] is a fully automated molecular diagnostics platform that integrates nucleic acid extraction and real-time PCR in one streamlined system or as independent modules. Together with lyophilised SMD lead kits [2], it ensures reliable high-quality results, minimal hands-on time, and reduced costs.

Designed for diagnostic laboratories, geneLEAD^® VIII bridges the gap between point-of-care solutions and high-throughput systems with a large footprint – offering both flexibility and dependable performance in a compact format across a wide range of applications.

Proven performance

• Rapid results: 120 min turnaround, < 5 min hands-on time
• 1–8 samples per run with LIS integration
• 6-channel multiplex PCR
• Reproducible, validated results
• HEPA filter + UV light for contamination control
• Lyophilised reagents – room-temperature storage

Integrated internal controls

• Internal sample control (ISC): ensures sample collection and sample integrity
• Internal process control (IPC): detects PCR inhibition within each reaction

EQA [3]-validated accuracy

• 100% concordance as verified by QCMD & INSTAND tests

Modular system architecture

• Nucleic acid extraction & PCR together or independent
• Eluates compatible with NGS & downstream applications

Independent and scalable

• Fits existing lab workflows
• Up to 6 systems networked for higher throughput

The growing portfolio of SMD lead kits provides ready-to-use, room-temperature-stable PCR assays covering a wide range of infectious diseases:

Respiratory panels

• SMD lead respiraRNA 3.0: Multiplex RNA assay for rapid seasonal respiratory diagnosis
• SMD lead respiraScreen 1: One test for flu, RSV, and COVID-19 in differential diagnosis
• SMD lead Bordetella: Differentiates Bordetella species for accurate cough diagnosis
• SMD lead MTC/NTM/MAC: Differentiates TB, NTM, and MAC in one test

Neurological and skin panels

• SMD lead HSV/VZV: Differentiates herpesvirus infections in neurological and dermatological cases

Gastrointestinal pathogens

• SMD lead C. diff: Rapid detection of toxigenic C. difficile
• SMD lead gastroplexVirus: Multiplex detection of leading viral gastroenteritis pathogens

Hospital-acquired infections   

• SMD lead MRSA seqc: Direct detection of MRSA and resistance markers

Sexually Transmitted Infections

• SMD lead STI1: Multiplex detection of bacterial STI pathogens
• SMD lead STI2: Multiplex detection of parasitic and mycoplasmal STIs