Detection of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein D614G mutation using µTGGE.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The accurate and expeditious detection of SARS-CoV-2 mutations is critical for monitoring viral evolution, assessing its impact on transmission, virulence, and vaccine efficacy, and formulating public health interventions. In this study, a detection system utilizing micro temperature gradient gel electrophoresis (µTGGE) was developed for the identification of the D614 and G614 variants of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. METHODS: The in vitro synthesized D614 and G614 gene fragments of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein were amplified via polymerase chain reaction and subjected to µTGGE analysis. RESULTS: The migration patterns exhibited by the D614 and G614 variants on the polyacrylamide gel were distinctly dissimilar and readily discernible by µTGGE. In particular, the mid-melting pattern of D614 was shorter than that of G614. CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrate the capability of µTGGE for the rapid, precise, and cost-effective detection of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein D614 and G614 variants without the need for sequencing. Therefore, this approach holds considerable potential for use in point-of-care mutation assays for SARS-CoV-2 and other pathogens.