Isothermal Amplification Technology for Diagnosis of COVID-19: Current Status and Future Prospects

During the COVID-19 pandemic, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has become gold standard for detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA worldwide. However, PCR-based nucleic acid technology remains relatively time-consuming, and requires specialized instrumentation technical personnel; therefore, PCR is difficult to apply at primary-level medical institutions. Antibody-based limitations because late appearance antibodies, thus making early diagnosis difficult, whereas antigen-based insufficient sensitivity, resulting in a high false-negative rate. Here, we briefly summarize development applications isothermal amplification technique (IAT) describe four major IATs used mainland China, which have been officially approved by National Medical Products Administration. In particular, elaborate on strengths weakness different IAT practical settings. We also discuss outlook propose considerations future use China.