Researchers in a lab wearing masks examine equipment while a digital virus model is superimposed in the foreground.

Clinical Health Intelligence Lab

Advancing clinical testing, research and education

When severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in Arizona, the Clinical Health Intelligence Laboratory (CHIL) at Arizona State University took swift action to protect our community. Partnering with the state, we established multiple public testing sites to ensure widespread access to reliable COVID-19 diagnostics.

CHIL is a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)- certified laboratory (CLIA #03D2341946), where the team upholds the highest standards of accuracy, safety and regulatory compliance. CHIL is a division of the Health Observatory transforming health data into actionable knowledge to serve Arizonans.

CHIL was the first in Arizona to introduce saliva-based COVID-19 testing, offering a less invasive, highly accurate, high-throughput and resource-efficient alternative to traditional methods. Our innovative approach reduces the need for medical personnel while maintaining exceptional diagnostic precision.

The laboratory currently performs SARS-CoV-2, FluA/B and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) testing.

TaqPath™ COVID-19, FluA, FluB Multiplex test

The TaqPath™ COVID-19, FluA, FluB Combo Kit is a multiplex real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test intended for the simultaneous qualitative detection and differentiation of RNA from SARS-CoV-2, influenza A or influenza B viruses in nasopharyngeal (NP) swab and anterior nasal (AN) swab specimens collected from individuals suspected of respiratory viral infection by their health care provider.

The TaqPath™ COVID-19, FluA, FluB Combo Kit is intended for use in simultaneous detection and differentiation of SARS-CoV-2, influenza A and influenza B nucleic acids in clinical specimens. The SARS-CoV-2, influenza A and influenza B RNA are generally detectable in upper respiratory samples during the acute phase of infection.

Positive results are indicative of active infection but do not rule out bacterial infection or co-infection with other pathogens not detected by the test. Clinical correlation with patient history and other diagnostic information is necessary to determine the patient's infection status. The agent detected may not be the definite cause of the disease.

Test fact sheet for patients

TaqPath™ COVID-19, FluA, FluB, RSV Multiplex test

The Applied Biosystems TaqPath™ COVID‑19, Flu A, Flu B, RSV Select Panel is a multiplex, real-time RT-PCR in vitro diagnostic test for the qualitative detection and differentiation of SARS-CoV-2, influenza A virus, influenza B virus and RSV.

Nucleic acids are isolated and purified from NP swab and AN swab specimens obtained from individuals exhibiting signs and symptoms of a respiratory tract infection. Clinical signs and symptoms of respiratory viral infections caused by SARS-CoV-2, influenza and RSV can be similar.

This test is intended to aid in the differential diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2, influenza A, influenza B and RSV A/B (undifferentiated) infections in humans.

QuantStudio™ 7 Flex Real-Time PCR System

Designed for running a wide range of qPCR applications with high accuracy and sensitivity, featuring extensive multiplexing capabilities through six decoupled filter channels and seamless automation integration. The multiple TaqPath™ COVID-19, FluA and FluB assays are run on this instrument.

Additional capabilities

Beyond COVID-19, FluA and FluB testing, we specialize in genetic and immunological epidemiology surveillance, diagnostic test development and advanced laboratory research. Our lab supports a wide range of clinical and translational research initiatives, including:

Genomic and molecular epidemiology studies to track disease evolution and outbreaks.
Immunological surveillance to assess population immunity and vaccine effectiveness.
Diagnostic assay development for emerging infectious diseases and novel biomarkers.
Collaborative clinical research projects with biotech firms, universities and public health agencies.

As a university-based clinical laboratory, CHIL provides an exceptional educational platform for student researchers. Through hands-on experience, they gain a deep understanding of patient diagnostics, laboratory operations and advanced testing methodologies, preparing them for careers in clinical and research settings. The lab serves as a bridge between academia and real-world laboratory medicine, fostering the next generation of health care professionals and researchers.

CHIL is dedicated to advancing scientific innovation, participant-centered diagnostics and supporting clinical education. With a goal of advancing health care solutions, CHIL is a trusted clinical testing service that facilitates research partnerships.

DYNEX DS2® 2-Plate System

Automated immunoassay testing with multi-assay management of up to 100 samples on board and a two-plate incubator.

NextSeq 2000 Sequencing Systems (NGS)

NGS can quickly sequence thousands of genes or the whole genome. NGS technologies reduce turnaround times in labs by enabling simultaneous detection of multiple types of genetic alterations and by allowing sample pooling during a single sequencing run.

NextSeq 1000 and 2000 sequencing systems

NextSeq 550Dx

Run In Vitro Diagnostic assays and laboratory-developed tests (LDT) on one instrument. Work within a regulated sequencing workflow to conduct diagnostic tests while retaining the flexibility to develop your own LDT.

NextSeq 550Dx instrument

7500 Fast Dx Real-Time PCR Instrument

This device streamlines data processing and analysis through its 96-well, five-color platform, which uses fluorescence-based PCR reagents and a specialized optical system for easy calibration with new dyes. Its advanced algorithm minimizes spectral crosstalk for effective multiplexing, and its intuitive software—featuring plate setup wizards and multi-plate data viewing.

MESO QuickPlex SQ 120MM

Rapid read times, as fast as 90 seconds per plate, and the ability to perform multiple, simultaneous tests on a single sample

UniCel DxI 800 Access Immunoassay System

Up to 400 tests per hour, with a 120-specimen capacity, can be run, and each rack is released in under 5 minutes.

Biomek i7 Automated Liquid Handler

Features a large-volume 1-mL multichannel pipetting head and transfer volumes from 0.5-µL to 5,000-µL

KingFisher instruments for sample purification

KingFisher purification instruments automate the extraction and purification of DNA, RNA, proteins, cells and exosomes.

KingFisher purification instruments