Current Trends in RNA Virus Detection via Nucleic Acid Isothermal Amplification-Based Platforms

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Virology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Ribonucleic acid (RNA) viruses are significant human pathogens.
• Conventional real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) for RNA virus detection is costly, time-consuming, and requires specialized infrastructure.
• Limitations of qRT-PCR necessitate the development of alternative diagnostic methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review common isothermal amplification methods for RNA virus detection.
• To discuss commercialized devices and kits utilizing isothermal amplification for SARS-CoV-2 detection.
• To highlight recent advancements in isothermal amplification-based microfluidic platforms for RNA virus diagnostics.

Main Methods:

• Exploration of isothermal nucleic acid amplification techniques as alternatives to qRT-PCR.
• Integration of isothermal amplification with microfluidic technology for enhanced diagnostics.
• Review of existing literature and commercial applications of these technologies.

Main Results:

• Isothermal amplification methods are rapid, user-friendly, cost-effective, and accurate for RNA virus detection.
• Microfluidic platforms combined with isothermal amplification offer simplicity, sensitivity, selectivity, and short analysis times.
• Commercialized solutions for SARS-CoV-2 detection using isothermal amplification are available.

Conclusions:

• Isothermal amplification methods, particularly when integrated with microfluidics, present a promising alternative for efficient RNA virus detection.
• These advanced platforms address the limitations of conventional methods, enabling diagnostics in diverse settings.
• Continued development in this area holds significant potential for infectious disease surveillance and control.