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This article explores how next-generation sequencing (NGS) is being used to help track the spread and evolution of SARS-CoV-2, including pinpoint the different lineages of the virus and identifying patterns of its movement both globally as well as locally.

The ACE2 receptor has garnered significant attention for the wrong reasons over recent months. Could it point towards an exit route out of this pandemic? In an interview with Technology Networks, the renowned immunologist Professor Josef Penninger explains why he thinks so, and discusses the latest clinical data obtained from testing the soluble ACE2 receptor, APN01.

Technology Networks spoke to Dr Iswariya Venkataraman, Scientific Affairs Lead at EUROIMMUN US, to learn about the differences between the S and N proteins and what makes them suitable as target antigens in serology testing. Iswariya also discussed the findings and implications from a study which cautioned against the extensive use of tests that detect antibodies against the N protein only.

Scientists are harnessing the power of synthetic biology – a field of science that involves redesigning biological components to generate novel synthetic entities – to solve scientific problems and drive innovation in medicine. Technology Networks recently spoke with Codex DNA’s CEO Todd R. Nelson to learn about the impact synthetic biology techniques are having on pharmaceutical development and the "big trends" in synthetic biology we are already seeing and are expected to see in the next few years.

By providing greater physiologic relevance and a species- or patient-specific test platform, organoids overcome many limitations of conventional 2D cultures and even live-animal disease models.

Technology Networks spoke to Jeff Hawkins, Dr Jerry Yeo, and Dr Abhijit Datta, to learn how the information provided by antibody tests can be used appropriately during the COVID-19 pandemic.

T cells are an important part of our immune memory and offer a wealth of valuable information about the way our bodies perceive and respond to pathogens. Learn how this information is being harnessed and applied in the fight against COVID-19.

In a study recently published in Cell Systems, a new ultra-high-throughput proteomics method was used to identify 27 blood biomarkers that distinguished COVID-19 patients with mild or severe responses. We spoke to Dr Markus Ralser to learn more about the study and how the method could potentially be used in the clinic to diagnose COVID-19 severity.

Here, Dr Pretorius examines the use of saliva, rather than blood, in rapid diagnostic tests for malaria and how this clinically informative biofluid could help to improve healthcare in the world’s poorest regions.

As the world continues to battle through the pandemic, developing innovative strategies to expand the availability of extraction, and any other testing components that are facing supply issues, will be an ongoing requirement.