RT-PCR · Pathology

What is the clinical significance of a 'One-step' RT-PCR assay in the detection of RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2?

  1. It allows for the detection of viral DNA integration
  2. It limits cross-contamination and speeds up sample processing
  3. It increases the length of the RNA template that can be amplified
  4. It eliminates the need for a thermal cycler
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Correct answer: It limits cross-contamination and speeds up sample processing

By performing the entire reaction in a closed-tube system, one-step RT-PCR reduces the number of pipetting steps. This is critical in clinical diagnostics to prevent 'carry-over' contamination and to streamline laboratory workflows.

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