28 March, 2026
pictor-s-virascreen-core-assay-enhances-hepatitis-b-testing

Laboratories are adapting to new guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding hepatitis B immunity testing. On December 19, 2025, Pictor, based in Carlsbad, California, announced its ViraScreen-CoreTM multiplex antibody assay as a solution to meet the evolving demands of post-vaccination antibody testing recommended by the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).

The ViraScreen-CoreTM assay, already utilized by CLIA-certified laboratories, is designed to detect antibodies to multiple infectious diseases, including hepatitis B, HIV-1, HIV-2, and hepatitis C, from a single sample. This capability not only reduces turnaround time but also conserves patient samples, thereby enhancing clinical decision-making based on evidence.

Dr. Jamie Platt, CEO of Pictor, emphasized the importance of flexibility in laboratory settings as public health guidance shifts. “Antibody testing gives laboratories flexibility as public health guidance evolves,” he stated. The assay’s ability to work with both serum and saliva samples is particularly significant, especially in challenging testing environments such as pediatric and community health settings where blood draws can be difficult.

Pictor has conducted paired serum and saliva studies that demonstrate high concordance, confirming saliva as a reliable testing medium. This innovation aims to lower barriers to testing and expand the environments in which it can be conducted. Dr. Andrew Brown, Chief Commercial Officer at Sirona Dx, noted, “Pictor’s ViraScreen-CoreTM assay represents a valuable addition to our clinical laboratory.” The compatibility with saliva samples and the multiplex format support streamlined workflows, which are crucial for effective infectious disease screening.

As Pictor continues to expand its offerings, the company is actively raising capital to support commercialization efforts and further development of its targeted proteomics platform. This expansion builds on the early adoption of their technology within laboratories.

For more information on Pictor’s ViraScreen-CoreTM assay, visit www.pictordx.com.

Pictor is a leader in flexible, targeted proteomics, delivering innovative multiplex solutions that empower clinical laboratories, diagnostic manufacturers, and veterinary providers globally. With its patented technologies, including the PictArrayTM platform and AI-powered PictorialTM software, Pictor aims to provide faster, cost-effective, and scalable results across various fields from infectious diseases to oncology.

Sirona Dx, a technical contract research organization, focuses on advancing diagnostic capabilities to enhance therapeutic development and precision medicine initiatives. Further details can be found at www.sironadx.com.

This announcement comes at a critical time as hepatitis B remains a significant global health concern. The need for effective immunity testing has historically faced challenges such as high costs and operational complexity. Pictor’s innovative approach seeks to address these issues, making a substantial impact on public health strategies related to hepatitis B and other infectious diseases.