New Test ‘N1-STOP-LAMP’ diagnoses SARS-CoV-2 virus in 20 minutes

In order to combat the menace of COVID 19 pandemic in the country, the researchers have developed a tool that can test the results of samples collected in as early as 20 minutes. This has been published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology.

Details of the Test

The rapid molecular test, named as N1-STOP-LAMP, is 100 per cent accurate in diagnosing samples containing the SARS-CoV-2 at high loads. This is referred to as a ‘near care’ test but it is not ready to replace the currently prevalent PCR testing being done to detect the deadly virus. This new test uses only one tube and involves only a single step, making it more efficient and lower cost than many of the current tests available for the COVID 19 disease. It took 14 minutes on an average to give results for the samples in the testing phase.

What is PCR Testing?

This test was developed by Kary Mullis, an American biochemist. In this test, copies of a segment of DNA are created using an enzyme called Polymerase. A fluorescent DNA binding dye called the ‘probe’ is added to DNA, which shows the presence of the virus on a fluorometer.                                                                  

But coronavirus is made up of RNA that is why the RNA is converted into DNA in a process called the Reverse Transcription. Then, the copies of the DNA are made and amplified.

What is SARS –CoV 2?

This is a part of the group of viruses and the latest strain is known as the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 by the International Taxonomy of Viruses. Generally, such viruses are responsible for respiratory infections including the common cold.

Month: Current Affairs - August, 2020