The current method for testing for variants involves sequencing the entire virus genome, which is expensive and time consuming.
The new method uses two RT-qPCR rapid tests based on gene deletion that differentiates the variants from the original strain. The tests successfully detected the British variant in sewage samples from Beersheba.
"My lab has been working hard throughout this pandemic to provide early warning and detection tools. Our detection system of corona in wastewater successfully completed a pilot program in 14 cities around Israel," said Prof. Ariel Kushmaro, who supervised development of the new method. "We continue to refine our research in service to humankind."
The method was developed by Dr. Karin Yaniv and Dr. Eden Ozer. Kushmaro and Yaniv are members of BGU's Environmental Biotechnology Lab and the Avram and Stella Goldstein-Goren Department of Biotechnology Engineering. Ozer is a member of the Department of Life Sciences.