A PCR testing kit can detect if someone has a viral infection, even if their viral load is low. Modern PCR tests use a real-time testing method, so you don’t have to wait long for results. By using reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, results are available in minutes. They’ve designed them to show results within 90 minutes of testing.
One-Step Reverse Transcription PCR
Now, it’s possible to complete reverse transcription and PCR at the same time. As a result of combining the process, testing is done in real-time. Compared to other methods, it’s much faster than what’s been used in the past.
Polymerase Chain Reaction
The fundamental technology underlying them is a polymerase chain reaction. For viral loads, they’re able to multiple nucleic acids in a solution. Then, you can see if there’s anything in the solution representative of a virus. If so, then the tests would indicate a positive reaction, meaning there’s an infection.
At its core, PCR relies on a process of thermal cycling. By raising and lowering the temperature of a solution, nucleic acids denature. After all the strands separate, DNA polymerase enters the solution. Once added, it begins to catalyze DNA replication, copying what’s in solution.
So, even if there’s not much in there, we can detect its presence. Even tiny amounts of nucleic acids will replicate until they’re detectable.
Project Bioshield manufactures PCR testing kit technology in the United States. Visit us at our website at to learn more.
