Optimization of primer sets and detection protocols for SARS-CoV-2 of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) using PCR and real-time PCR

Abstract

Diagnostic microbiology: Boosting confidence in COVID-19 detection A design strategy for virus detection tests could lead to improved detection of SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Laboratories currently perform SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic assays based on a technique called the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which enables targeted amplification of viral nucleic acids. PCR assays are sensitive but can be plagued by false positives or false negatives. C. Justin Lee of the Institute for Basic Science, Daejon, Republic of Korea, and coworkers have devised a protocol for optimizing assay performance. The success of a PCR assay is determined by the selection of ‘primers’, short DNA strands that determine which genomic sequence gets amplified. The researchers identify a strategy for designing effective primer sets, and selecting reaction conditions that make best use of those primers. Although the focus here is on SARS-CoV-2, this approach should be applicable to other viruses.