Genotyping technology detects Covid variants faster and cheaper
Research from the University of East Anglia and the UK Health Security Agency has revealed that genotyping technology can detect new Covid variants almost a week faster than traditional whole genome sequencing methods. This breakthrough allows for more rapid detection and communication of variant information to frontline health protection professionals during the height of the pandemic. Genotyping also played a crucial role in implementing local control measures such as contact tracing more quickly.
Study shows genotyping detects new Covid variants more quickly
Lead researcher Prof Iain Lake stated that when the Covid pandemic began, whole genome sequencing was the gold standard diagnostic tool for identifying and characterizing variants. However, it was not feasible for large populations due to cost, capacity, and timeliness limitations. By the start of 2021, genotyping technology was introduced as a faster and more cost-effective method to detect new variants. The research team compared genotyping results with those from whole genome sequencing and found that genotyping was able to detect known Covid variants six days faster, with results back in just three days compared to nine days for whole genome sequencing.
Genotyping enables rapid detection of Covid variants
The study demonstrated that genotyping assays were very accurate in detecting Covid variants. In fact, the research team found that genotyping could detect known variants more quickly and cheaply than whole genome sequencing. With genotyping, variant results were available in just three days, allowing for a nine-fold increase in the quantity of samples tested for variants. This meant that variants could be detected among many more people, enabling rapid implementation of local control measures such as contact tracing.
Genotyping allows for quicker implementation of control measures
The ability to detect Covid variants more rapidly through genotyping technology has significant implications for public health response. Professor Susan Hopkins, UKHSA Chief Medical Advisor, highlighted the importance of genomics expertise in the UK response to Covid-19. The faster detection of variants facilitated by genotyping enables quicker decision-making regarding control measures, which could help limit the spread of the virus and protect public health.
Genotyping has the potential to guide public health decision-making
Genotyping technology has vast potential for guiding public health decision-making and disease control globally. Its application is not limited to just Covid variants but can be used to find variants in a wide range of organisms in humans and animals. This research demonstrates the effectiveness and efficiency of genotyping in detecting variants, and it serves as a critical tool for future pandemic threats. Building upon the advances in testing during the Covid-19 pandemic, genotyping can bolster defenses against emerging threats and ensure a well-prepared response to protect public health.
Overall, the research from the University of East Anglia and the UK Health Security Agency highlights the significant benefits of genotyping technology in detecting Covid variants more quickly and cheaply. This breakthrough allows for rapid implementation of control measures and has the potential to guide global public health decision-making in the future.
Analyst comment
Positive
As an analyst, the market for genotyping technology is expected to expand as its effectiveness in detecting Covid variants more quickly and at a lower cost is highlighted. This breakthrough will likely lead to increased adoption of genotyping methods in healthcare settings and potentially other industries, driving growth in the genotyping market.
