Detecting SARS-CoV-2 Virus by Reverse Transcription-Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus has dramatically impacted human health. It continues to be a threat to modern society because many people die as a result of infection. The disease is diagnosed using serologic and molecular tests, such as the gold standard real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The last has several disadvantages because it requires specialized infrastructure, costly equipment, and trained personnel. Here, we present a protocol outlining the steps required to detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus using reverse transcription-loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) in human samples. The protocol includes instructions for designing primers in silico, preparing reagents, amplification, and visualization. Once standardized, this method can be easily implemented and adapted to any laboratory or point-of-care within 60 min at a low cost and using inexpensive equipment. It is adaptable to detecting different pathogens. Thus, it can potentially be used in the field and in health centers to carry out timely epidemiological surveillance.