This is interesting - much lower Ct values for the ORF1 and N targets of (presumed) B.1.1.7 samples.

However, isn't this a three-target multiplexed assay? If you have S-target dropout, wouldn't you automatically get better amplification of the other two targets? https://twitter.com/medrxivpreprint/status/1343115110659850240

I don't know the performance of the Thermo assay, but amplifying 2/3 targets instead of 3/3, surely the two targets that *do* amplify would automatically have lower Ct values, irrespective of potential titer differences? Easy to test- split out the probe sets and run individually

Some important things brought up in comments:

1. S still amplifies, it's the probe that drops out
2. General consensus - dropout of S shouldn't affect ORF1/N Cts
3. Validation not yet done (?) or not necessary (?)