Abstract
The method LAMP (loop-mediated isothermal amplification), which is similar to the much more commonly used PCR method, allows multiple amplification of specific regions of nucleic acids and can therefore be used to detect specific DNA or RNA in samples. Both amplification methods (LAMP and PCR) have sensitivity several orders of magnitude higher than the widely used antigen tests, which detect viral envelope proteins and do not involve amplification.
Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, attempts have been made to use the LAMP method to detect the genetic information of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the form of RNA. This protocol describes a newly developed method for diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 based on isothermal amplification of viral nucleic acids using a fluorescent detection system, where the result can be read by the naked eye or documented photographically using simple equipment.