How to better select SARS-CoV-2 preservation solution of virus nucleic acid testing.

Background: Sampling and testing for SARS-CoV-2 is a widely recognized method for identifying patients with COVID-19. However, there is limited research available on the stability of nucleic acids in viral storage solutions.

Methods: This paper investigates the components that provide better protection for virus and nucleic acid detection. The study utilized real-time quantitative fluorescent PCR to detect SARS-CoV-2 and evaluate the preservation effect and stability of SARS-CoV-2 viral storage solution under various conditions, including different guanidinium salts, brands, and storage conditions.

Results: All brands of inactivated virus preservation solutions demonstrated effective preservation and stability. However, 0.5 mol/L guanidine hydrochloride and guanidine isothiocyanate solutions exhibited poor antiseptic effects. Additionally, refrigerated storage showed better preservation compared to room temperature storage.

Conclusions: We recommend using inactivated virus collection solution to preserve and transport samples and testing preferably within 6 hours to reduce false negatives of NAT results.