High-Throughput Diagnostic Assay For The Human Virus Causing Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (Sars)

Abstract

The Present Invention Relates To A High-Throughput Diagnostic Assay For The Virus Causing Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (Sars) In Humans ("Hsars Virus"). In Particular, The Invention Relates To A High-Throughput Reverse Transcription-Pcr Diagnostic Test For Sars Associated Coronavirus (Sars-Cov). The Present Assay Is A Rapid, Reliable Assay Which Can Be Used For Diagnosis And Monitoring The Spread Of Sars And Is Based On The Nucleotide Sequences Of The N (Nucleocapsid)-Gene Of The Hsars Virus. The Present Method Eliminates False Negative Results And Provides Increased Sensitivity For The Assay. The Invention Also Discloses The S (Spike)-Gene Of The Hsars Virus. The Invention Further Relates To The Deduced Amino Acid Sequences Of The N-Gene And S-Gene Products Of The Hsars Virus And To The Use Of The N-Gene And S-Gene Products In Diagnostic Methods.; The Invention Further Encompasses Diagnostic Assays And Kits Comprising Antibodies Generated Against The N-Gene Or S-Gene Product.