Table 1 Most current available diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV 2
From: An update on novel approaches for diagnosis and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection
| Approach | Detection | Mechanisms | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RT-PCR | Different genes (S, E, N, RdRp, ORF1ab) | Reverse transcriptase PCR amplification (thermal cycles) | High sensitivity and specificity with low copy number of virus | False +/−, qualified technician, expensive, only in laboratory, only for active infection, uncomfortable swab sampling |
| LAMP, RT-LAMP, RPA | Different genes (S, E, N, RdRp, ORF1ab) | PCR amplification (without thermal cycle) | Rapid screening (POC), time saving, user friendly, simple equipment | Low sensitivity, False +, primary validation, only for active infection, uncomfortable swab sampling |
| CRISPR/cas | Different genes (S, E, N, RdRp, ORF1ab) | Detection and cleavages of viral RNA by CRISPR-cas9, 12, 13 systems | Rapid screening (POC), time saving, user friendly, high specificity and sensitivity, read results by naked eye or simple instrument | Low sensitivity due to viral adaptation, high cost |
| ELISA | Viral Antigens (proteins)/antibodies | Detection of Ag/Ab in the sample based on the attachment of anti-Ag/Ab and florescent visualization | Quantitative detection, stable reagent, high sensitivity for Ab detection, can be visualized by using Au nanoparticles, low cost | Less accuracy and low sensitivity especially in Ag detection at later phase of the disease, time consuming, high cost, difficult for early diagnosis in case of Ab detection |
| LFIA | Viral antigens (proteins)/antibodies | Detection of Ag or Ab in the plasma based on the attachment of antiAG/Ab on the nitrocellulose membrane and nanoparticle visualization | Rapid screening (POC) and time saving, simple and user friendly, read the results by digital instrument or naked eye | Less accuracy and low sensitivity, not suitable for early diagnosis, false nagative, verification needed |
| CLIA | Viral antigens (proteins)/antibodies | Detection of Ag or Ab in the plasma based on the attachment of anti-Ag/Ab on the magnetic, protein-coated microparticles and visualization by chemiluminescent | Rapid screening (POC) and time saving, automated instruments | High cost, not suitable for early diagnosis, need supporting chemiluminescence instruments |