Genomics and COVID-19

Abstract

The year 2020 opened with the availability of the genome sequence of SARS-COV-2 within 8 weeks of the first published case of COVID-19. This speed was unthinkable even in the last decade. Using this information, even before COVID-19 was declared as a pandemic, many countries could be equipped with molecular assays for detection of SARS-CoV-2. This became our first line of armour in this combat. The original design of the armour underwent a very rapid evolution in its design making it quick, ultra-sensitive and accurate. In the beginning of 2020, we had assays which took hours to detect the virus, and by the end of 2020 we are equipped with assays witch can do molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 in minutes (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33025503/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33244462/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33181329/). The genome sequence of the virus also allowed cloning and expression of individual viral proteins, which fuelled the development of rapid antigen/antibody tests for point of care screening for SARS-CoV-2 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32621814/). Both these resulted in a massive wave in the biotech business. In 2020, the global COVID-19 diagnostics market size was valued at USD 19.8 billion. By 2027, this is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3-5% and projected to reach USD 4.63 billion. The readiness of smart testing solutions for COVID-19 alone is expected to boost market growth in the immediate future. As of today, the vast sums of capital needed to support the biotech industry are in place and several brilliant scientists are coming forward to translate their ideas into clinical application. Indeed, we are seeing a revolution in the way genomic diagnostics is transforming our lives in real time.