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SARS-CoV-2 Variants Identification: Overview of Molecular Existing Methods
Giulia Berno1, Lavinia Fabeni1, Giulia Matusali1
1Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" (IRCCS), 00149 Rome, Italy.
Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)
|September 23, 2022
Summary
Real-time sharing of SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences aids diagnostics and surveillance. This overview examines methods for rapid and whole genome sequencing to detect emerging variants.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Genomics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of real-time genomic surveillance for tracking SARS-CoV-2.
- SARS-CoV-2 rapidly mutates, leading to the emergence of new variants that require swift detection and monitoring.
- Understanding transmission dynamics relies on timely genetic data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of methods for identifying SARS-CoV-2 variants.
- To analyze the advantages, limitations, and applications of different variant detection techniques.
- To inform diagnostic and surveillance strategies for emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Main Methods:
- Review of rapid methods for specific mutation identification.
- Analysis of Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) approaches for comprehensive genomic monitoring.
- Comparative assessment of various diagnostic and surveillance techniques.
Main Results:
- Rapid methods offer quick detection of known mutations but may miss novel variants.
- Whole Genome Sequencing provides in-depth genomic information crucial for identifying new variants.
- Each method has distinct applications, limitations, and advantages in surveillance.
Conclusions:
- A combination of rapid and WGS methods is essential for effective SARS-CoV-2 variant surveillance.
- Timely genomic data is critical for public health responses to the evolving pandemic.
- Continuous monitoring of viral evolution is necessary to stay ahead of emerging variants.
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