COVID qPCR Lab- Diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 Infection
This lab demonstrates the power that
molecular techniques bring to managing infectious disease
![](https://www.minipcr.com/wp-content/uploads/COVID-lab-P51-data-4x6-1-450x300.jpg)
outbreaks. In
this case study students act as healthcare providers at an airport
screening facility and test fictional patients for infection with the
SARS-CoV-2 virus. Students use PCR and a fluorescence viewer to diagnose their patients.
The data for this lab can be
collected two ways: endpoint detection or qPCR time point observations.
Endpoint detection allows your students to use a single observation of
fluorescence to diagnose their patients, in a single class period and without the need to run a gel.
For longer classes, students can monitor their PCR samples over time to
model the principles of qPCR, the gold standard for diagnosis of
SARS-CoV-2 infection.
![COVID test stock image_square](https://www.minipcr.com/wp-content/uploads/COVID-test-stock-image_square-450x450.jpg)
- Techniques: Micropipetting, qPCR, fluorescence visualization, gel electrophoresis (optional)
- Topics: Infectious disease, molecular diagnostics, biotechnology
- Time required: One or two class periods (depending on approach)
- Level: General high school, advanced high school, college
Disclaimer: no pathogenic materials are used. This
experimental protocol engages students in a simulated patient diagnosis
exercise. None of the materials provided in this lab kit pose a
pathogenic risk. For educational use only. Not for diagnostic use.
![SARS-CoV-2_stock image_square](https://www.minipcr.com/wp-content/uploads/SARS-CoV-2_stock-image_square-150x150.jpg)
This lab kit provides enough reagents for eight lab groups:
- qGRN Master Mix
- COVID Primer Mix
- Simulated Patient Samples:
- Patient AH
- Patient BH
- Patient CH
- Patient DH
- Simulated Control Samples
- Positive Control
- Negative Control
- PCR strip tubes
- Fast DNA Ladder 1
- 6X Loading Dye
Supplied by user:
If performing the optional gel electrophoresis, you will also need the following standard reagents and consumables. The Learning Lab Companion Kit
(catalog no. KT-1510-01) contains all the consumables (except water)
needed for 8 lab groups. These reagents and consumables can also be
sourced independently.
Reagents and consumables supplied by user:
- Agarose (electrophoresis grade)
- DNA stain (e.g., SeeGreen™ or GelGreen®)
- Gel electrophoresis buffer (e.g., 1X TBE)
- Distilled or deionized H2O (to dilute buffer concentrate – not included in Lab Companion Kit)
- Microtubes
- PCR tubes
Required equipment:
- Micropipettes and tips
- PCR thermal cycler
- P51™ molecular fluorescence viewer or other blue light illuminator
- Optional: Gel electrophoresis and visualization system
Storage notes:
- Reagents require freezer storage
- Reagents are stable for 12 months when stored in freezer
Downloads
SDS
If you cannot find the answer to your problem then please contact us or telephone +44 (0)1954 210 200