Evaluation of a multiplexed oligonucleotide ligation assay for SARS-CoV-2 variant identification

BACKGROUND: SARS-CoV-2 variant surveillance informs vaccine composition and decisions to de-authorize antibody therapies. Though detailed genetic characterization requires whole-genome sequencing, targeted mutation analysis may complement pandemic surveillance efforts. METHODS: This study investigated the qualitative performance of a multiplex oligonucleotide ligation assay targeting 19 spike mutations using 192 whole genome sequenced upper respiratory samples representing SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. RESULTS: Initial valid results were obtained from 95.8% [95% confidence interval (CI): 92.0 – 98.2; 184/192] of samples. All eight invalid samples were valid on repeat testing. When comparing SARS-CoV-2 oligonucleotide ligase assay SARS-CoV-2 variant calls with whole genome sequencing, overall positive percent agreement was 100% (95% CI: 98.1 – 100.0; 192/192), as was the positive and negative percent agreement for each of the tested variants; Gamma, Delta, Omicron BA.1, BA.2, and BA.4/BA.5. CONCLUSIONS: This multiplexed oligonucleotide ligation assays demonstrated accurate SARS-CoV-2 variant typing compared to whole genome sequencing. Such an approach has the potential to provide improved turnaround compared to sequencing and more detailed mutation coverage than RT-qPCR.