Roadmap for the development of diagnostic tests for coronaviruses

Genetic

visit roadmap

Genetic

Research Question

Affordable tools to be utilised in the field for:
- genetic detection
- genetic characterization
- identification of virulence factors
- identification of homologous or heterologous genes

Genetic similarities between many coronavirus lineages (therefore sequencing is needed for species identification)
Field adaptation
Different species
Different matrix
Bioinformatics support/characterization/interpretation of virulence markers or genetic signatures
Consideration that during diagnostics, we may also hit upon discovery
Biosafety issues restrict viral isolation
Internal quality controls (e.g. arbitrary ct values) may bias towards detection of higher viral infectious loads and some may be missed
Consideration that successful viral isolation may introduce lab adaptations that infer rapid changes and may not reflect wild type virus

Protocols for different matrix (milk, mucous membrane swabs, faeces…)
Develop multiplex PCR
Purification methods for sequencing
On site-trials and validation
User friendly tools and reporting systems
Bait and capture, enrichment approaches for high ct/low copy samples to generate sequences where possible
Development of multiple systems to give a preliminary assessment of biological characterisation – genetic sequence and viral kinetics to be shared widely
Implementation of appropriate biosafety measures and risk assessments to ensure safe working (and acceptability from external stakeholders e.g. general public)
Development of standardised processes for the above