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How is the COVID-19 Virus

Detected using Real-Time RT-PCR?

s the coronavirus that causes the COVID-19 disease technique, how it works and a few refresher details on
spreads across the world, the IAEA, in partnership viruses and genetics
Awith the Food and Agriculture Organization of the
What is real-time RT–PCR?
United Nations (FAO), is offering its support and expertise
to help countries use real-time reverse transcription- Real-time RT–PCR is a nuclear-derived method for
polymerase chain reaction (real-time RT–PCR), one of the detecting the presence of specific genetic material in
most accurate laboratory methods for detecting, tracking any pathogen, including a virus. Originally, the method
and studying the COVID-19 coronavirus. used radioactive isotope markers to detect targeted
genetic materials, but subsequent refining has led to the
But what is real-time RT–PCR? How does it work? How
replacement of isotopic labelling with special markers,
is it different from PCR? And what does this have to do
most frequently fluorescent dyes. This technique allows
with nuclear technology? Here’s a handy overview of the
scientists to see the results almost immediately while the
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