International Journal of Molecular Sciences Commentary COVID-19 and Diagnostic Testing for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-qPCR—Facts and Fallacies Stephen Bustin 1,* , Reinhold Mueller 2, Gregory Shipley 3 and Tania Nolan 1 1 Medical Technology Research Centre, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford CM1 1SQ, UK;
[email protected] 2 RM Consulting, San Diego, CA 92037, USA;
[email protected] 3 Shipley Consulting, Vancouver, WA 98682, USA;
[email protected] * Correspondence:
[email protected] Abstract: Although molecular testing, and RT-qPCR in particular, has been an indispensable compo- nent in the scientific armoury targeting SARS-CoV-2, there are numerous falsehoods, misconceptions, assumptions and exaggerated expectations with regards to capability, performance and usefulness of the technology. It is essential that the true strengths and limitations, although publicised for at least twenty years, are restated in the context of the current COVID-19 epidemic. The main objective of this commentary is to address and help stop the unfounded and debilitating speculation surrounding its use. Keywords: COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; molecular diagnostics; quantification cycle; RT-qPCR 1. Introduction Citation: Bustin, S.; Mueller, R.; The sudden eruption of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in late Shipley, G.; Nolan, T. COVID-19 and 2019 caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 [1] has led to an extraordinary world- Diagnostic Testing for SARS-CoV-2 by wide mobilisation of research, public health and governmental resources. This resulted RT-qPCR—Facts and Fallacies. Int. J. in the rapid acquisition of extensive genetic, virological and epidemiological data that Mol. Sci. 2021, 22, 2459.