Modern medicine is constantly evolving, striving to find effective ways to combat infectious diseases. One of the most important areas in the diagnosis of viral infections is molecular genetic research, which allows for the high-precision detection of viruses, determination of their characteristics and prediction of their behavior in the human body.

What is molecular genetic testing?

Molecular genetic research is a method of analyzing the genetic material (DNA or RNA) of microorganisms. These technologies are used to detect and identify viruses, bacteria and other pathogens at the molecular level, which makes them indispensable in modern diagnostics.

Among the key methods of molecular diagnostics are:

• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is one of the most accurate and sensitive methods that can detect even a small amount of viral genetic material in a sample.
• Reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) is a method used to diagnose RNA viruses such as coronaviruses and influenza.
• The next-generation sequencing (NGS) method allows for a detailed study of the virus genome, identification of its mutations and determination of the routes of spread.
• The light-mediated amplification method (LAMP) is a faster method that can be used in the field without complex equipment.

Advantages of molecular genetic diagnostics

High accuracy and sensitivity. Allows to detect the virus even at low concentrations in the body.

Speed ​​of obtaining results. PCR analysis takes from several hours to one day, which speeds up the diagnostic and treatment process.

Determining the specific type of virus. Genetic analysis allows us to differentiate even similar virus strains.

Detecting viral mutations. This is especially important for monitoring changes in viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza or HIV.

Minimal probability of false positive results. Unlike serological tests, molecular studies detect the virus itself, not antibodies to it.

Mass testing capability: With advanced technology, modern laboratories are able to process thousands of samples per day.

How is the analysis carried out?

The molecular genetic research procedure includes several stages:

1. Collection of biological material – most often a nasopharyngeal swab, sputum or blood is used.
2. Isolation and purification of nucleic acids – DNA or RNA of the virus is isolated from the sample using special reagents.
3. Amplification of genetic material – if a virus is present, its genetic material is copied many times, making it detectable.
4. Analysis and interpretation of results – the obtained data are deciphered and compared with viral genome databases.
5. Confirmation of the result – in case of controversial results, retesting or additional analysis using alternative methods can be carried out.

Why is this important?

With the development of new viral infections and the emergence of mutations, classical diagnostic methods (e.g. microscopy or serological tests) may not be accurate enough. That is why molecular methods play a key role in:

• Early detection of viral infections;
• Control of the spread of epidemics;
• Development of new vaccines and antiviral drugs;
• Determination of viral resistance to drugs;
• Evaluation of the effectiveness of the treatment;
• Monitoring new virus strains.

The Future of Molecular Diagnostics

Science does not stand still, and new diagnostic methods are already being developed, such as nanopore sequencing, CRISPR diagnostics and labs "on a chip". These technologies will allow analysis to be carried out even faster, more accurately and more affordable.

In addition, portable devices for express diagnostics of viruses are being developed that can be used in the field, which is especially important during epidemics and pandemics.

Modern molecular genetic research is not just an innovation, but a powerful tool in the fight against viral diseases.

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