Optimizing RT-PCR detection of SARS-CoV-2 for developing countries using pool testing

Abstract The global shortage of reagents and kits for nucleic acid extraction and molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 requires new cost-effective strategies for the diagnosis of suspected COVID-19 cases, especially in countries that need to increase detection capacity. Pooled nucleic acid testing has...

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Autores principales: Farfan,Mauricio J., Torres,Juan P., O'Ryan,Miguel, Olivares,Mauricio, Gallardo,Pablo, Lastra,Jorge, Salas,Carolina
Lenguaje:English
Publicado: Sociedad Chilena de Infectología 2020
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Acceso en línea:http://www.scielo.cl/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0716-10182020000300276
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Sumario:Abstract The global shortage of reagents and kits for nucleic acid extraction and molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 requires new cost-effective strategies for the diagnosis of suspected COVID-19 cases, especially in countries that need to increase detection capacity. Pooled nucleic acid testing has been extensively used as a cost-effective strategy for HIV, HepB, HepC and influenza. Also, protocols dispensing of RNA extraction appears as an attractive option for detection of SARS-CoV-2. In this study, we found that pooling of 5 samples showed that CT variations were in the range of 1.0-4,5 units, with less likelihood of a false negative result. Results of the sample without nucleic acid ex-traction, was unsatisfactory, with a significant increase in CT values, and thus for risk of a false negative result. In conclusion, pooling nasopharyngeal samples with both automated and manual extraction proved reliable, and thus a potential efficient alternative for the diagnosis of suspected COVID-19 in developing countries.