Reading the full sequence of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus genomes has become a natural consequence of the effective fight against the ongoing epidemic. Such information is provided by sequencing analyzes, but most often it is not generally available to individuals. So how do we find out if one of the dangerous variants of the coronavirus has attacked us? We answer this question in the article below.

Rapid diagnosis of the coronavirus mutation

genXone uses an enhanced Real-Time PCR test for coronavirus in its laboratory. It not only indicates the infection with the virus itself but also provides information on whether the identified coronavirus has in its genetic code mutations characteristic of variants considered dangerous. This means that when performing the test, we immediately find out whether we are infected and whether the coronavirus identified in our swab has mutations characteristic of dangerous variants. A detailed offer of the study is available HERE.

PCR test to identify the virus mutation – how does it work?

The test described above simultaneously detects the sequences of 4 genes of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (E, N, S/RdRP), as well as 5 mutations in the S protein, which are characteristic of the so-called significant variants. Having obtained a positive result in both cases, it is possible to specifically distinguish significant variants of the coronavirus. For this purpose, another test is performed but based on the same taken sample, which detects significant mutations in the sequence of the S gene (E484K, N501Y, HV 69/70 deletion). On this basis, it is possible to distinguish significant variants of the coronavirus.

The interpretation of the study is therefore as follows:

• detection of the HV 69/70 change means the identification of a mutation characteristic of the British variant of the coronavirus (B.1.1.7);
• detection of the N501Y change means the identification of a mutation characteristic of the South African variant of the coronavirus (B.1.1.7 | B.1.351 | P.1);
• detection of an E484K change means the identification of a mutation characteristic of the Brazilian and/or Nigerian variant of the coronavirus (B.1.351 | P.1 | P.2 | B.1.525).

Real-Time PCR technique

The Real-Time PCR technique used in the research is a method that consists in duplicating unique DNA fragments characteristic of specific pathogens and then detecting their genetic material. Its high sensitivity enables the identification of pathogens even at a very early stage of disease development. An accurate and quick diagnosis of viral infections in infectious diseases allows you to decide on the appropriate treatment method.