Development of multiplex real-time RT-PCR assay for the detection of SARS-CoV-2

PLoS One. 2021 Apr 29;16(4):e0250942. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250942. eCollection 2021.

Abstract

The outbreak of the new human coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (also known as 2019-nCoV) continues to increase globally. The real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) is the most used technique in virus detection. However, possible false-negative and false-positive results produce misleading consequences, making it necessary to improve existing methods. Here, we developed a multiplex rRT-PCR diagnostic method, which targets two viral genes (RdRP and E) and one human gene (RP) simultaneously. The reaction was tested by using pseudoviral RNA and human target mRNA sequences as a template. Also, the protocol was validated by using 14 clinical SARS-CoV-2 positive samples. The results are in good agreement with the CDC authorized Cepheid`s Xpert® Xpress SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic system (100%). Unlike single gene targeting strategies, the current method provides the amplification of two viral regions in the same PCR reaction. Therefore, an accurate SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic assay was provided, which allows testing of 91 samples in 96-well plates in per run. Thanks to this strategy, fast, reliable, and easy-to-use rRT-PCR method is obtained to diagnose SARS-CoV-2.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 / diagnosis*
  • COVID-19 / virology
  • COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Testing / methods*
  • COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Testing / standards
  • Humans
  • Limit of Detection
  • Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods*
  • Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction / standards
  • RNA, Viral / analysis
  • RNA, Viral / genetics*
  • SARS-CoV-2 / genetics*
  • SARS-CoV-2 / isolation & purification
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • RNA, Viral

Grants and funding

The authors extend their appreciation to the Deputyship for Research & Innovation, Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia for funding this research work through the project number COVID19-2020-026-IRMC at lmam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University / Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC) (https://seu.edu.sa/dammam/en/news/deputy-minister-of-education-for-universities-research-and-innovation; https://www.iau.edu.sa/en). Also, this study is funded by Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC) (https://www.iau.edu.sa/en/administration/centers/institute-for-research-and-medical-consultations-irmc) under the project number of 2020-IRMC-S-3. Huseyin Tombuloglu received the awards.