Progress of the Detection Methods for SARS-CoV-2.

Background: The severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes a respiratory illness, characterized by symptoms such as fever, dry cough, and drowsiness. This virus is highly contagious, has significant mutation rates, and induces infection despite vaccination. Its widespread prevalence has profoundly impacted global economies, societies, and daily life. In response to these challenges, researchers have committed themselves to advancing rapid and cost-effective diagnostic technologies, holding substantial importance for the rapid evolution of global diagnostic capabilities. Nonetheless, various detection methods diverge in principles, sensitivity, specificity, and other aspects. Additionally, COVID-19 is not an isolated event, but part of a broader history of pandemics in human society. Therefore, this article briefly reviews the existing detection methods of SARS-CoV-2, providing valuable technical insights to diagnose not only SARS-CoV-2 but also other viruses.

Methods: A search was conducted on PubMed by utilizing keywords such as "SARS-CoV-2 detection", "RT-qPCR detection for SARS-CoV-2", "LFA detection for SARS-CoV-2", "Biosensors detection for SARS-CoV-2", and similar terms. The objective was to compile and summarize relevant articles on these topics.

Results: Currently, the real-time reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) stands as a widely employed method for detecting SARS-CoV-2, enabling an accurate detection of viral RNA. Furthermore, the lateral flow assay (LFA) assists in detecting viral antigens and antibodies. Gene sequencing technology primarily facilitates the real-time monitoring of mutated SARS-CoV-2 strains, while biosensors could offer a rapid, economical, sensitive, and precise detection of SARS-CoV-2. These methods provide a strong technical support for the early detection and diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2.

Conclusions: This paper offers a concise overview of pathogen detection methods, as molecular biology, and immunological detection techniques, alongside emerging biosensor platforms relevant to SARS-CoV-2, and delineates the strengths and weaknesses of each method.