Standard laboratory protocols for SARS-CoV-2 characterisation

This handbook provides an overview of commonly used laboratory protocols for the characterisation of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses, provided by the AURORAE consortium. Basic cell culture protocols are presented, as well as specific protocols for testing SARS-CoV-2 and influenza-positive, or clinical specimens. The protocols include methods such as plaque assays, virus titration, antibody-based detection methods, virus neutralisation assays, as well as protocols to perform sequencing and PCRs. This handbook also highlights the variability between protocols used in different institutes, and points out different ways of performing the assays at appropriate points. However, it is not possible to show the entirety of this variability within the scope of this handbook. Furthermore, an adaptation of the protocols may be necessary upon establishment.