The present invention relates to a high-throughput diagnostic assay for
the virus causing Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in humans
("hSARS virus"). In particular, the invention relates to a
high-throughput reverse transcription-PCR diagnostic test for SARS
associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV). The present assay is a rapid, reliable
assay which can be used for diagnosis and monitoring the spread of SARS
and is based on the nucleotide sequences of the N (nucleocapsid)-gene of
the hSARS virus. The present method eliminates false negative results and
provides increased sensitivity for the assay. The invention also
discloses the S (spike)-gene of the hSARS virus. The invention further
relates to the deduced amino acid sequences of the N-gene and S-gene
products of the hSARS virus and to the use of the N-gene and S-gene
products in diagnostic methods. The invention further encompasses
diagnostic assays and kits comprising antibodies generated against the
N-gene or S-gene product.