Testing samples for the presence of Covid-19

"Detection of the virus involves two phases. From patient samples, we first obtain the genetic information of the virus, nucleic acid - RNA. The next step is to search for and amplify certain virus genome sequences that are specific only for SARS-CoV-2 and are not found in other viruses or in the human body. Using this method, we are able to capture these sequences, "explains RNDr. Ruth Tachezy, Chief Testing Coordinator at BIOCEV. "The advantage of the implemented method is its sensitivity and independence from commercial diagnostics, as well as the possibility of examining a large number of samples," adds Ruth Tachezy.

The Gene Core Service Laboratory - Quantitative and Digital PCR and the Biotechnology Institute 's Gene Expression Laboratory have developed qPCR technology, which is used to identify viral RNA and can determine the presence of Covid-19 virus. More than 20 employees participated in the testing at the Institute of Biotechnology, who will test the samples already taken.

 

Among the employees of the BIOCEV center, 100 volunteers applied, who work with infectious and non-infectious material, with viral RNA and its identification by PCR method, and at the same time provide related administration and logistics. The virological laboratories and research infrastructures of the 1st Medical Faculty of Charles University and the Faculty of Science of Charles University, the Institute of Biotechnology of the CAS and the Institute of Molecular Genetics of the CAS participate in the testing.

(engine translated)