Validation Study of a Direct Real-Time PCR Protocol for Detection of Monkeypox Virus

Monkeypox has recently been described as a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization and a public health emergency by the United States. If the outbreak continues to grow, rapid scalability of laboratory testing will be imperative. During the early days of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, laboratories improved the scalability of testing by using a direct-to-PCR approach. To improve the scalability of monkeypox testing, a direct real-time PCR protocol for the detection of monkeypox virus was validated. The assay retains the sensitivity and accuracy of the indirect assay while eliminating the need for nucleic acid extraction kits, reducing laboratory technologist time per sample and decreasing exposure to an infectious agent. The direct method will make it easier for laboratories across the world to rapidly develop, validate, and scale testing for monkeypox virus.(J Mol Diagn 2022, 24: 1155-1159; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmoldx.2022.09.001)

Automated summary

Monkeypox has been identified as a global public health emergency by the World Health Organization and the United States. In order to address the growing outbreak, researchers have validated a direct real-time PCR protocol for monkeypox virus detection, which improves scalability, reduces technician time per sample, and minimizes exposure to the infectious agent.