Clinical testing on SARS-CoV-2 swab samples using reverse-transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP)

Abstract

BackgroundHigh cost of commercial RNA extraction kits limits the testing efficiency of SARS-CoV-2. Here, we developed a simple nucleic acid extraction method for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 directly from nasopharyngeal swab samples.MethodsA pH sensitive dye was used as the end point detection method. The obvious colour changes between positive and negative reactions eliminates the need of other equipment.ResultsClinical testing using 260 samples showed 92.7% sensitivity (95% CI 87.3–96.3%) and 93.6% specificity (95% CI 87.3–97.4%) of RT-LAMP.ConclusionsThe simple RNA extraction method minimizes the need for any extensive laboratory set-up. We suggest combining this simple nucleic acid extraction method and RT-LAMP technology as the point-of care diagnostic tool.