Validation and scale-up of COVID-19 genomics for use in a public health laboratory – the BC experience: Rebecca Hickman & Natalie Prystajecky

TEAM: Tracy Lee, Rebecca Hickman, Dan Fornika, Jason Nguyen, Shannon Russell, Kimia Kamelian, Linda Hoang, Natalie Prystajecky Genomics has proven very important in understanding the transmission of SARS-CoV-2. We validated a 1200bp amplicon sequencing method (Freed protocol) with the Illumina DNA Prep protocol. The method was validated using both manual and automated library preparation. We were able to generate reliable and high-quality data with fewer failures for samples with lower viral loads, when compared to the widely used Artic protocol. With liquid handling, sample multiplexing and higher output instruments, we anticipate being able to scale up sequencing capacity to greater than 1000 genomes per week. This will increase BCCDC PHL’s ability to use genomics as a critical tool in public health response.

BC CDC Presenters

10/14/2020 5:05:00 PM