Magnetic bead method-basednucleic acid extraction technology: A key support for combating the spread of new coronavirus variants

Recently, many countries around the world have reported a significant increase in cases of infection with the novel coronavirus variants (such as KP.2, KP.3, etc.). The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that the immune evasion ability of these variants may trigger a new wave of the epidemic. In response to the rapid spread of the variants, various countries have resumed nucleic acid testing and virus genome monitoring systems. Against this backdrop, the magnetic bead-based nucleic acid extraction technology, with its advantages of high efficiency, stability, and automation, has once again become a core tool for large-scale screening and precise diagnosis, providing key technical support for global epidemic prevention and control.

Monitoring of variant strains places higher demands on nucleic acid extraction.

The continuous mutation of the novel coronavirus poses challenges to the sensitivity and specificity of detection. The new variant strains often have stronger transmissibility, and some of them may lead to a decline in the neutralizing efficiency of existing antibodies. Therefore, quickly and accurately extracting viral nucleic acids from clinical samples (such as throat swabs, saliva, etc.) is the first step to ensure the reliability of PCR testing and genetic sequencing. Traditional nucleic acid extraction methods (such as centrifugal column method) are cumbersome to operate and have low throughput, making them difficult to meet the large-scale testing requirements in sudden public health emergencies. However, the magnetic bead method, through the specific binding of magnetic microspheres to nucleic acids, can complete batch sample processing within 30 minutes and is compatible with automated equipment, significantly improving the detection efficiency.

The technical advantages of the magnetic bead method in the prevention and control of variant strains

1. High-throughput for large-scale screening

During the prevalence of variant strains, some countries (such as the United States and India) have expanded the scope of nucleic acid testing again, and even resumed entry testing requirements. The magnetic bead method can be integrated into an automated extraction platform, with a single machine capable of processing thousands of samples per day, far exceeding the limit of manual operation. For example, in the winter of 2023, China achieved a daily testing capacity of over 10 million person through automated equipment using the magnetic bead method.

2. High purity for ensuring sequencing accuracy

Genomic analysis of variant strains requires high-quality nucleic acid templates. The magnetic bead method can effectively remove inhibitors (such as mucus,hemoglobin) from samples through optimized surface modification techniques (such as silanol coating), resulting in higher nucleic acid purity and providing a reliable foundation for subsequent sequencing and variant site identification.

3. Flexible response to complex sample types

With the deepening of research on virus transmission routes,new detection scenarios such as wastewater monitoring and aerosol sampling have emerged. The magnetic bead method’s strong adaptability to complex samples (such as environmental wastewater,animal-derived samples) makes it particularly outstanding in cross-species transmission warnings (such as avian influenza H5N1).

4. Promoting technological iteration and domestic substitution

The spread of this variant strain has also accelerated the upgrade of nucleic acid extraction technology. Domestic enterprises (such as BGI and Daan Genomics) have further reduced testing costs by optimizing magnetic bead materials and buffer systems,and developed portable solutions such as freeze-dried reagents,helping to support prevention and control in resource-poor areas. In addition,the combination of the magnetic bead method and CRISPR rapid detection technology is expected to achieve “sample input – result output” immediate diagnosis,providing a more flexible solution for future epidemic prevention and control.

From Alpha to Omicron, and then to the current KP series variants, the magnetic bead-based nucleic acid extraction technology has always been the “backstage hero” in the field of molecular diagnostics. In the face of the long-term challenge of virus mutations, this technology will continue to support the global public health defense system with its efficient and stable characteristics, and set a benchmark for infectious disease prevention and control in the era of precision medicine.

Supplier

Shanghai Lingjun Biotechnology Co., Ltd. was established in 2016 which is a professional manufacturer of biomagnetic materials and nucleic acid extraction reagents.

We have rich experience in nucleic acid extraction and purification, protein purification, cell separation, chemiluminescence, and other technical fields.

Our products are widely used in many fields, such as medical testing, genetic testing, university research, genetic breeding, and so on. We not only provide products but also can undertake OEM, ODM, and other needs. If you have a related need, please feel free to contact us at sales01@lingjunbio.com.