Detecting COVID-19 Using Reverse-Transcription PCR (RT-PCR)

Reverse-transcription PCR (RT-PCR) is the gold standard for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 due to the sensitivity, specificity, and feasibility of the test. In this simulated RT-PCR experiment, students will explore the diagnostic test used worldwide to diagnose and monitor the spread of COVID-19. This experiment requires a PCR thermal cycler. **Please note, this experiment is a DNA simulation of reverse transcription PCR and is intended solely for educational purposes. There are no viral or human DNA products included in this experiment. The experiment will not perform viral RNA testing for SARS-CoV-2.**