SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a review of molecular diagnostic tools including sample collection and commercial response with associated advantages and limitations

The unprecedented global pandemic known as SARS-CoV-2 has exercised to its limits nearly all aspects of modern viral diagnostics. In doing so, it has illuminated both the advantages and limitations of current technologies. Tremendous effort has been put forth to expand our capacity to diagnose this deadly virus. In this work, we put forth key observations in the functionality of current methods for SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic testing. These methods include nucleic acid amplification-, CRISPR-, sequencing-, antigen-, and antibody-based detection methods. Additionally, we include analysis of equally critical aspects of COVID-19 diagnostics, including sample collection and preparation, testing models, and commercial response. We emphasize the integrated nature of assays, wherein issues in sample collection and preparation could impact the overall performance in a clinical setting.

Automated summary

The unprecedented global pandemic of SARS-CoV-2 has pushed the limits of modern viral diagnostics, highlighting both the advantages and limitations of current technologies while prompting efforts to expand diagnostic capacity. Key observations in functionality of current SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic methods have been put forth, with emphasis on critical aspects such as sample collection, testing models, and commercial responses. Integrated nature of assays is stressed, where issues in sample collection and preparation could impact overall performance in a clinical setting.