SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR to Screen for B.1.617.2 (Delta) Variant of Concern.

ABSTRACT: The continuous transmission and evolution of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has required that diagnostic capabilities be constantly monitored and updated as new variants emerge and prior variants disappear. Although whole genome sequencing provides full characterisation of SARS-CoV-2 directly from patient samples, this has limited throughput and requires sufficient resources. To enhance screening for circulating variants, we designed a rapid in-house RT-PCR assay to target a spike mutation (D950N) in Delta variants, which is not detected in the remaining variants of concern (VOCs). Assay sensitivity for detecting Delta variants was 93% and specificity was 100% using a sequenced sample bank of several lineages. As the D950N mutation is prevalent in >95% of the

SUBMITTER: Lowry K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9497716 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature