Rapid and Mass Epidemic Screening Has Become Possible at ELTE
As a result of the development, the laboratory now has the capability to detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA using an RT-LAMP-based method from saliva samples. The advantage of this method is that it is easily scalable and adaptable for detecting potential new variants, does not require complicated sample preparation procedures, provides rapid results, and does not cause the same discomfort as nasal or throat swabs. This method has been used for mass screenings during the COVID-19 crisis in several countries. However, its disadvantage is that it is less sensitive and reliable than qPCR and the widely used rapid testing methods today.
The laboratory has also developed a qPCR test capable of detecting SARS-CoV-2 and influenza infections. Additionally, there are IgA ELISA and IgG ELISA tests available, which are applicable to the Wuhan and Omicron variants. These tests provide information about who has already been infected and how effective the immune response of COVID-19 vaccinated individuals has been, as SARS-CoV-2 specific antibodies only appear in them. A major advantage of this method is that it does not require specialized laboratory equipment and is suitable for testing large numbers of samples simultaneously, making it ideal for mass testing. The method also allows for measuring the levels of coronavirus-specific antibodies, which, with sufficient data, can be used to infer the degree of immunity.
The test system used at the center consists of reagents made from in-house manufactured components, which were tested by ELTE researchers using established protocols and validated with the help of participating partners. As a result, large-scale and cost-effective screening methods were developed, which could be deployed and applied quickly in the event of another pandemic. Moreover, the laboratory’s infrastructure extends to the logistical background necessary to support computer-based record-keeping and client notification systems, as well as the ability to connect to the relevant state systems.
The technology transfer of the developed laboratory and testing protocols could even expand national capacities, enabling a rapid response in the event of another pandemic. By applying the methods to potential new variants or other pathogens, they would facilitate quick action and effectively support epidemic control efforts.
The project, launched in the spring of 2022 under the leadership of Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) and with the participation of the University of Pécs (PTE), the Central Hospital of Southern Pest - National Institute of Hematology and Infectious Diseaes (DPC), and ImmunoGenes-ABS Ltd. (IMG), was realized with the support of the National Research, Development and Innovation Office, with a funding of nearly 360 million HUF.
Source: ELTE Faculty of Science (ELTE TTK)