COVID-19 Serology in New York State Using a Multiplex Microsphere Immunoassay

ABSTRACT

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2, leading to COVID-19, necessitated the development of new molecular and serological tests. Here, we describe a multiplexed serological assay developed as the global pandemic moved into New York State in the spring of 2020. The original microsphere immunoassay used a target antigen from the SARS-CoV-1 virus responsible for the 2003 SARS outbreak, but evolved to incorporate multiple SARS-CoV-2 protein antigens (nucleocapsid, spike and spike domains, spike and nucleocapsid proteins from seasonal human coronaviruses). Besides being highly versatile due to multiplex capabilities, the assay was highly specific and sensitive and adaptable to measuring both total antibodies and antibody isotypes. While determining the assay performance characteristics, we were able to identify antibody production patterns (e.g., kinetics of isotypes, individual variations) for total antibodies and individual antibody classes. Overall, the results provide insights into the laboratory response to new serology needs, and how the evolution and fine-tuning of a serology assay helped contribute to a better understanding of the antibody response to SARS-CoV-2.