Is SARS-COV-2 Deceiving RT-PCR Detection Measurements?

Abstract

COVID-19 disease is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome–coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The first genomic sequence of SARS-CoV-2 obtained is defined as the Reference Genome. Unfortunately, mutations occurred in the viral genome, and new strains are produced. Thus, it is required to optimize the sensitivity of the detecting method. This study aimed to determine the efficiency and sensitivity of the RT-PCR in detecting any possible mutations that can occur in specific regions of the viral genome by testing the ability of standard primers and probes in detecting it. Firstly, intending to perform a control system and then create a mutation and utilize it by the same system. Two-Step RT-PCR was performed, and a total RNA from human lung patient was mixed with the sample to mimic a human patient sample. By analyzing a 10-fold dilution starting from 32,000,000 copy number/ μl to 32 copy number / μl of templet in each reaction, our results showed that the performed PCR detection could linearly amplify the target. This study results will enable us to test the efficiency and sensitivity of this system in detection mutations.