Aug. 7, 2026—Roche, in collaboration with subsidiary Tib Molbiol, released two research PCR testing options for labs to address the public health impact of the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite. The LightMix Modular Cyclospora assay, for research use only, is for the detection of cyclospora only using hydrolysis probe chemistry. The LightMix OneTube Gastro Para 2 assay, also RUO, includes multiplex, real-time PCR detection of Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia, Dientamoeba fragilis, Cryptosporidium, Blastocystis, and Cyclospora cayetanensis. The assays are used with the LightCycler 480 and LightCycler Pro instruments.
The tests complement the UC-TIB-Gastro-PARA-2, a multiplex, real-time PCR test for high-throughput research, detecting Dientamoeba fragilis, Blastocystis hominis, and Cyclospora cayetanensis in a single reaction. It is for research use only and runs the Cobas 5800, 6800, and 8800 systems.