Pooling of SARS-CoV-2 samples to increase molecular testing throughput.

ABSTRACT:

Background

SARS-CoV-2 testing demand has outpaced its supply. Pooling samples for lower risk populations has the potential to accommodate increased demand for SARS-CoV-2 molecular testing.

Objective

To evaluate the sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility of 4-way pooling of SARS-CoV-2 specimens for high-throughput RT-PCR.

Study design

Individual samples were pooled 1:4 through automated liquid handling, extracted, and assayed by our emergency use authorized CDC-based RT-PCR laboratory developed test. Positive samples were serially diluted and theoretical and empirical PCR cycle thresholds were evaluated. Thirty-two distinct positive samples were pooled into negative specimens and individual CTs were compared to pooled CTs. Low positive samples were repeated for

SUBMITTER: Perchetti GA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7396208 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature