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Coronaviruses

Breakthrough in COVID-19 Research: Recovering High-Quality RNA from Positive SARS-CoV-2 Tests

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Researchers at University College Dublin have made a significant breakthrough in COVID-19 research by developing a protocol for recovering high-quality RNA from positive SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen diagnostic tests (RADTs). This discovery has the potential to extend the diagnostic utility of RADTs, enabling the rapid identification of circulating variants and tracing the source and spread of outbreaks within communities. According to the study, the recovered RNA can be used for whole virus genome sequencing, providing valuable insights into the virus's genetic makeup.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study demonstrated that viral particles of SARS-CoV-2 suitable for whole virus genome sequencing can be recovered from positive spent RADTs.
  • The experimental protocol involved spiking RADTs at different concentrations with viable SARS-CoV-2 variant Alpha (lineage B.1.1.7), lysis, and RNA extraction.
  • The recovered RNA was detected through RT-qPCR with Ct values suitable for sequencing, and the recovery was confirmed after 7 days of storage at both 4 and 20°C.
  • The study showed that the genomic sequences obtained at each time-point aligned to the strain used for the spiking, demonstrating the effectiveness of the protocol.
  • The protocol was applied to obtain whole virus genome sequence from RADTs ran in the field where the omicron variant was detected.
  • The study concluded that the recovered high-quality RNA can be used for epidemiology studies and risk management, guaranteeing public health.

Statistics:

  • The study used 14 RADTs spiked with SARS-CoV-2 variant Alpha (lineage B.1.1.7).
  • The Ct values of the recovered RNA were suitable for sequencing, indicating high-quality RNA.
  • The genomic sequences obtained at each time-point aligned to the strain used for the spiking with 94-100% identity.
  • The study demonstrated 100% recovery rate of SARS-CoV-2 viral genome from positive RADTs after 7 days of storage at both 4 and 20°C.
  • The study was conducted by a team of researchers led by Guerrino Macori, Center for Food Safety, School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin.

Sources:

  • Inactivation and Recovery of High Quality RNA From Positive SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Tests Suitable for Whole Virus Genome Sequencing. Frontiers in Public Health, 2022,10.
  • doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.863862
  • University College Dublin: A free version of the journal article is available at https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2022.863862.

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