Summary Journal

The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2, previously known as

2019-nCoV) is an enveloped, positive-sense, single-stranded genomic RNA virus (+ssRNA)
responsible for causing Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) is a PCR method specifically
designed for the detection of (genomic) RNA. RT-PCR is highly reliable and a rapid technique,
yielding results within a few hours in a high-throughput manner.
Currently, RT-PCR stands as the gold standard for SARS-CoV-2 detection due to its ability to
directly measure specific viral genomic components rather than relying on secondary biomarkers
like antigens or antibodies.
RT-PCR kits for SARS-CoV-2 detection typically include reverse transcription and amplification
enzymes, two to three sets of primers and probes for amplifying specific viral genome regions, as
well as authorized reagents for negative, positive, and internal controls.
A comprehensive list of target genes, along with corresponding primer and probe sequences used
in RT-PCR kits for SARS-CoV-2, is available.
An antibody is a protein produced by the immune system in response to an antigen. Each
antibody has sites that can bind only to a specific type of antigen, removing it from the body.
An antigen is a particle/fragment/molecule that can trigger the immune system, inducing
antibody production to eliminate pathogens and thereby protect the body.
Prompt testing for SARS-CoV-2 is crucial due to the ongoing spread of the virus. The
development of a precise and rapid test would be immensely beneficial in the fight against the
virus, as methods based on rapid antibody and antigen tests are still globally questioned
regarding their accuracy and selectivity.