Extraction-free sensitive detection of viral RNA using direct RT-PCR chemistry

Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAAT) are a reliable, sensitive, and accurate diagnostic approach used in viral detection. The approach involves the isolation of nucleic acids from a sample, which is not only time and resource consuming but increases the chances of accidental contamination and human error. In a period of high demand, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, treatment, monitoring, successful management and control relies on the rapid and accurate detection of viral pathogens. Direct reverse transcriptome polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) from unpurified samples promises to reduce the time and resources required for sample testing by eliminating the need for the isolation of nucleic acids. This presentation provides an overview of the technical limitations of this approach and provides an overview of a proprietary chemistry that helps to overcome challenges with sample degradation and sensitivity levels in the detection of viral particles.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) technology and growth potential

2. Review the opportunities and challenges for extraction-free methods

3. Discuss a robust extraction-free chemistry optimized for One-Step RT-qPCR for detection of RNA