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Science and Technology Solutions for Scalable SARS-CoV-2 Testing to Inform Return to Full Capacity Strategy in United
Daniel T Hicks1, David Metzger2, Blake W Stamps2
1Research Bioenvironmental Engineer, Air Force Research Laboratory, 711th Human Performance Wing, WPAFB, OH.
Medical Journal (Fort Sam Houston, Tex.)
|March 5, 2021
Summary
Rapid, sensitive testing for SARS-CoV-2 is crucial for pandemic response. The Department of Defense (DOD) is exploring advanced diagnostics like RT-LAMP and antibody tests to quickly identify infections and protect personnel.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Biotechnology
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitates improved diagnostic strategies for SARS-CoV-2.
- Current gold standard RT-qPCR testing for SARS-CoV-2 is time-consuming, delaying outbreak containment.
- The Department of Defense (DOD) requires rapid, effective testing solutions due to its operational requirements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate current and emerging SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic technologies for rapid and sensitive detection.
- To explore methods for identifying active and past infections, including asymptomatic cases.
- To support the DOD's pandemic preparedness and response capabilities.
Main Methods:
- Examination of Reverse Transcription quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR) as a benchmark.
- Exploration of Reverse Transcription Loop-mediated isothermal Amplification (RT-LAMP) for rapid diagnostics.
- Investigation of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and Lateral Flow Immunoassays (LFIA) for antibody detection.
- Assessment of volatile organic compound (VOC) biomarker identification for SARS-CoV-2 detection.
Main Results:
- RT-qPCR, while accurate, presents significant time delays in diagnosis.
- Emerging technologies like RT-LAMP offer potential for faster, point-of-care testing.
- Multi-modal approaches including antibody detection and VOC analysis show promise for comprehensive surveillance.
- The DOD is actively investigating these technologies to enhance its response strategy.
Conclusions:
- A combination of advanced diagnostic tools is essential for effective SARS-CoV-2 surveillance and pandemic response.
- Rapid identification of infections, including asymptomatic cases, is critical for controlling community spread.
- The DOD's proactive validation of multiple testing strategies will bolster its readiness for future health crises.
