Rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 by pulse-controlled amplification (PCA)

J Virol Methods. 2021 Apr:290:114083. doi: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2021.114083. Epub 2021 Jan 27.

Abstract

In the current pandemic of SARS-CoV-2, rapid identification of infected individuals is crucial for management and control of the outbreak. However, transport of samples, sample processing and RT-qPCR analysis in laboratories are time-consuming. Here we present a prototype of a novel nucleic acid-based test format - pulse controlled amplification - that allows detection of SARS-CoV-2 directly from up to eight swab samples simultaneously without the need for RNA extraction within 25 min with a sensitivity of 100 % for samples with a viral load of ≥ 1.6 × 10e3 copies/μl This new principle might pave the way to rapid and sensitive point of care testing.

Keywords: COVID-19; Diagnostics; Point of care; Rapid test; SARS-CoV-2.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 / diagnosis*
  • COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Testing / methods*
  • COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Testing / standards
  • Humans
  • Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques / methods*
  • Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques / standards
  • Point-of-Care Testing
  • RNA, Viral / genetics
  • SARS-CoV-2 / genetics
  • SARS-CoV-2 / isolation & purification*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • RNA, Viral