Rapid, Reliable and Robust approach for extraction-free RT-PCR based detection of SARS-CoV-2 in clinical setting to expedite large scale screening
Rapid, reliable and robust method for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 is an indispensable need for diagnostics. The development of diagnostic methods will aid to address further waves of the pandemic potentially with rapid surveillance of disease and to allay the fears. To meet this challenge, we have developed a rapid RT-qPCR method for the detection of 3 target genes or confirmatory genes in less than 30 minutes. The assay showed 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity when tested on 120 samples. We compared a conventional extraction based method with extraction-free method, and then further reduced the run time of extraction free method. Additionally, we have validated our rapid RT-qPCR method for the assessment of pooled samples. We hereby propose a most reliable approach for the mass screening of samples with ease of operation at a low cost. Finally we designed a single tube analysis method which provides qualitative as well as quantitative results in minimum time.