Ella Cohen
Pronouns: She/Her
Research Mentor(s): Krista Wigginton
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Civil and Environmental Engineering / Engineering
Program:
Authors:
Session: Session 7: 4:40 pm – 5:30 pm
Poster: 19
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the stability of viral RNA on surfaces. Using the influenza A virus as the target, the decay time of its RNA on surfaces and in liquids can be determined. It is expected that this decay will occur faster in liquids and slower on surfaces, leading to great implications for controlling the spread of respiratory viruses indoors. Concentration levels of the virus after being left on a given surface can be measured using RT-qPCR with absolute quantification. After extracting viral RNA from a given sample, absolute quantification is done using standards created from synthetic RNA of the target virus. The concentrations of the virus in a given sample can be obtained by comparing the RT-qPCR results to the standard curve generated. From there, the decay kinetics of RNA on surfaces can be observed. By testing the same sample multiple times over several hours and days, the survival levels can be observed by comparing previous concentrations. We expect the virus to decay over time, and the time observed can help determine preventative actions for the spread of respiratory viruses indoors. So, the data collected demonstrates how long viruses can last in indoor environments, overall helping diminish the spread.
