COVID-19 Diagnostic Testing: A New Study Highlights Efficient Diagnostic Strategy Utilizing Open-source Pipetting Robots

Strategic Insights -

A new study on COVID-19, conducted by researchers at Clemson University, has introduced a significant breakthrough in diagnostic testing. The study focused on developing a multiplex RT-qPCR diagnostic assay for population surveillance of COVID-19 in closed populations, such as residential universities. The researchers utilized open-source liquid handling robots and thermocyclers to optimize workflow and system flexibility, resulting in automation of saliva-based RT-qPCR for rapid and accurate detection of a wide range of viral RNA concentrations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study aimed to develop an efficient diagnostic strategy for COVID-19 in closed populations, such as residential universities.
  • The researchers utilized open-source liquid handling robots and thermocyclers to optimize workflow and system flexibility.
  • The multiplex RT-qPCR diagnostic assay enabled rapid and accurate detection of a wide range of viral RNA concentrations.
  • The average turnaround time for the automated system was not specified in the study.
  • The cost for a single test was $2.80 when all reagents were purchased in bulk quantities.
  • The study was supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Clemson Athletic Department, Clemson University, and Joint Bond Review Committee.
  • Financial supporters and authors of the study include Delphine Dean, Clemson University; Rachel E. Ham; Austin R. Smothers; Kylie L. King; Justin M. Napolitano; Mark A. Blenner; Theodore J. Swann; and Lesslie G. Pekarek.
  • The study was peer-reviewed and published in the Journal of Visualized Experiments.

Statistics:

  • Cost for a single test: $2.80 (when all reagents were purchased in bulk quantities)
  • Average turnaround time for the automated system: not specified
  • Number of authors: 8 (Delphine Dean, Rachel E. Ham, Austin R. Smothers, Kylie L. King, Justin M. Napolitano, Mark A. Blenner, Theodore J. Swann, and Lesslie G. Pekarek)
  • Number of financial supporters: 4 (National Institutes of Health, Clemson Athletic Department, Clemson University, and Joint Bond Review Committee)

Sources:

  • "Efficient Sars-cov-2 Quantitative Reverse Transcriptase Pcr Saliva Diagnostic Strategy Utilizing Open-source Pipetting Robots. Journal of Visualized Experiments, 2022(180)"
  • Journal of Visualized Experiments, 1 Alewife Center, Ste 200, Cambridge, MA 02140, USA
  • NewsRx LLC (VerticalNews) - Robotics & Machine Learning (2022 Jun 27) - "Studies from Clemson University Describe New Findings in COVID-19 (Efficient Sars-cov-2 Quantitative Reverse Transcriptase Pcr Saliva Diagnostic Strategy Utilizing Open-source Pipetting Robots)"