PCR Testing – Covid-19 DNA Testing
It’s hard to go by any news stories without hearing about Covid-19. Be it on TV or social media, it’s just about everywhere. People are receiving the jab, showing off the vaccine scars. Travel bubbles. Self-isolation and lockdowns. Political debate on direction and planning phases.
Get Covid-19 or even symptoms, you need to get tested. Amongst the discomfort of the sample taken, that sample is taken away for testing. Are you positive or negative determines your return to work status?
So what is being used to test this sample? Welcome to the world of DNA testing. More importantly likely one of the testing methods required could undergo PCR Testing.
So what is PCR Testing?
Sometimes known as a molecular test, this technique involves a laboratory process known as a polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This PCR test detects genetic material of the virus in the fluid samples from the nasal swab. Depending on the availability of the Real-Time PCR Machine determines how quickly the test returns a result. The PCR Machine can produce a result very quickly within minutes and quite accurately!
So why do some PCR tests come back as a false negative?
False negative readings are most likely either an unsuitable swab sample or mishandling of that sample prior to the actual testing. This highlights the need for standardised procedures not only in the sample collection and handling but also the PCR testing process.
Despite the media hype on Covid-19, there are many types of applications where PCR testing can be applied beyond this virus including testing of prawns, the validity of contents within foods and testing of water samples for specific viruses to name a few.
PCR Testing and Biotechnology Training
PCR Testing (or Real-Time PCR Machine) training therefore addresses the importance of the various steps of DNA testing. Our courses provide complete instruction on the ISO standards revolving Real-Time PCR and within an accredited laboratory. Graduates from educational institutions should take the opportunity in using our state of the art laboratory and instrumentation and learn from our highly skilled and experienced team of professional trainers.
Feel free to contact us for further information about our biotechnology courses or apply for the course that best suites.