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Rapid adaptation and continuous performance evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 envelope gene (E-gene) real-time RT-PCR assays to support the hospital surge in test demand.
Ho, Yolanda I I; Wong, Ann H; Leung, Eddie C M; Wong, River C W; Lai, Raymond W M.
  • Ho YII; Department of Microbiology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China.
  • Wong AH; Department of Microbiology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China.
  • Leung ECM; Department of Microbiology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China.
  • Wong RCW; Department of Microbiology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China.
  • Lai RWM; Department of Microbiology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China.
J Med Virol ; 93(3): 1824-1827, 2021 03.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-1196516
ABSTRACT
We describe the timely adaption of both published WHO E-gene protocol and commercially available LightMix Modular E-gene assay to the test platform (ABI 7900 Fast real-time analyzer and TaqMan Fast One-step Virus Master Mix) available in an accredited tertiary hospital laboratory with an on-going evaluation to ensure the provision of quality service within the time constraint. The LightMix Modular E-gene was slightly more sensitive when compared to the WHO E-gene, both analytically and diagnostically. The assay was recommended for screening of SARS-CoV-2 infection. With the availability of technically competent staff through continuous training, the provision of round-the-clock service is feasible despite the test is of high complexity. The thermal cycling duration of the adapted LightMix E-gene and WHO E-gene is shortened by half and one hour respectively and allows the number of runs to double when 24-h round-the-clock service is provided. An increase in testing capacity could support surges in testing demand, which is essential to control the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, to prevent potential overwhelming of the healthcare system, and to optimize utilization of the isolation beds.
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Full text: Available Collection: International databases Database: MEDLINE Main subject: Genes, env / Coronavirus Envelope Proteins / SARS-CoV-2 / COVID-19 Type of study: Diagnostic study / Experimental Studies / Prognostic study Limits: Humans Language: English Journal: J Med Virol Year: 2021 Document Type: Article Affiliation country: Jmv.26660

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Full text: Available Collection: International databases Database: MEDLINE Main subject: Genes, env / Coronavirus Envelope Proteins / SARS-CoV-2 / COVID-19 Type of study: Diagnostic study / Experimental Studies / Prognostic study Limits: Humans Language: English Journal: J Med Virol Year: 2021 Document Type: Article Affiliation country: Jmv.26660