RSS Feeds

Earth Science

Space Science

Life Science

Fields of Scientific Study

Nanotechnology

Cancer

Definitions of The Fields of Scientific Study

New accurate diagnostic test for swine H1N1 influenza using RT-PCR technology

June 10, 2009

A new, easy-to-perform method for detecting both seasonal influenza A virus and the emerging H1N1 swine-derived influenza A virus in human clinical samples offers a fast, sensitive, and cost-effective diagnostic test that runs on standard laboratory equipment. This timely and broadly applicable molecular technique is described in an article published online ahead of print in Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, a peer-reviewed journal published by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. (www.liebertpub.com). The article is available free online at www.liebertpub.com/vbz

The recent emergence and global spread of a new swine flu virus highlights the urgent need for a reliable diagnostic test that can discriminate the H1N1 influenza virus from other strains and can be readily implemented in clinical testing laboratories. The molecular strategy described in the article in Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases is based on proven and widely used Real-Time, Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) technology. The authors of the report entitled "A Simple Method for Molecular Detection of Swine-Origin and Human-Origin Influenza A Virus" describe the development of a new molecular probe that improves on the existing PCR assay used to diagnose seasonal influenza and enables detection of both the seasonal and H1N1 influenza A viruses in the same patient sample using a simple test protocol. Laetitia Ninove and colleagues from Université de la Méditerranée and Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (Marseille, France), Hôpitaux de Marseille, CEH Oxford (UK), and EHESP School of Public Health (Rennes, France) provide data to support the sensitivity and effectiveness of the SYBR Green RT-PCR one-step assay used for screening clinical samples to detect the presence of influenza A virus. In positive samples this is followed by the addition of two probes that are able to discriminate between the seasonal and swine H1N1 viruses to yield a definitive diagnosis.

Early, accurate identification of infected individuals will expedite appropriate antiviral therapy and enhance control and containment efforts. Furthermore, this new molecular test specifically amplifies and characterizes the viral genetic material, enabling rapid detection of new viral strains as they evolve. Using these genetic sequence data and making minor alterations to the PCR primers used in the assay, the test could be easily modified to detect newly emerging viral variants, including avian influenza strains.

"Early recognition of new influenza strains is vitally important for implementing effective control measures to limit spread. This cost-effective, comprehensive, and rapid test is a highly significant contribution to diagnostics that will greatly enhance our capacity to deal with future influenza outbreaks," says Stephen Higgs BSc, PhD, FRES, Editor-in-Chief of Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases, and Associate Professor, Department of Pathology, Center for Biodefense & Emerging Infectious Diseases, Sealy Center for Vaccine Development and WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston.

Mary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News

Related H1N1 Current Events and H1N1 News Articles

H1N1 Current Events and H1N1 News RSS

When should flu trigger a school shutdown?
As flu season approaches, parents around the country are starting to face school closures. But how bad should an influenza outbreak be for a school to shut down?

Sneezing in times of a flu pandemic
The swine flu (H1N1) pandemic has received extensive media coverage this year. The World Health Organization, in addition to providing frequent updates about cases of infection and death tolls, recommends hyper vigilance in daily hygiene such as frequent hand washing or sneezing into the crook of our arms.

Rice U. lab leads hunt for new zeolites
In all the world, there are about 200 types of zeolite, a compound of silicon, aluminum and oxygen that gives civilization such things as laundry detergent, kitty litter and gasoline. But thanks to computations by Rice University professor Michael Deem and his colleagues, it appears there are -- or could be -- more types of zeolites than once thought.

Initial Results Show Pregnant Women Mount Strong Immune Response To One Dose of 2009 H1N1 Flu Vaccine
Healthy pregnant women mount a robust immune response following just one dose of 2009 H1N1 influenza vaccine, according to initial results from an ongoing clinical trial sponsored by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) of the National Institutes of Health.

Pandemic flu vaccine campaigns may be undermined by coincidental medical events
The effectiveness of pandemic flu vaccination campaigns - like that now underway for H1N1 - could be undermined by the public incorrectly associating coincidental and unrelated health events with the vaccines.

Scientists discover influenza's Achilles heel: Antioxidants
As the nation copes with a shortage of vaccines for H1N1 influenza, a team of Alabama researchers have raised hopes that they have found an Achilles' heel for all strains of the flu-antioxidants.

TGen seeks emergency FDA approval of new swine flu test
The Phoenix-based non-profit Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) announced today that, along with a business collaborator, it will submit a request to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for emergency use of a new test to diagnose the 2009 H1N1 swine flu virus.

Lessons from flu seasons past
Pregnant women who catch the flu are at serious risk for flu-related complications, including death, and that risk far outweighs the risk of possible side effects from injectable vaccines containing killed virus, according to an extensive review of published research and data from previous flu seasons.

Swine flu vaccine must be free and safe for high uptake
Almost half of adults surveyed in Summer 2009 in Hong Kong (45%) say they would take up free swine flu vaccination.

Triple-Combo Drug Shows Promise Against Antiviral-Resistant Swine Flu, UAB Researcher Says
An experimental drug cocktail that includes three prescriptions now widely available offers the best hope in developing a single agent to treat drug-resistant H1N1 swine flu, says a virology researcher in the University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases.

More H1N1 Current Events and H1N1 News Articles

	H1N1 and Swine Influenza (Flu) Protection Kit w/ N95 Masks - Meets CDC Guidelines for H1N1 and Swine Flu by JIB EDP Protect against all Influenza's (Flu) Help protect yourself and your family with this Flu Defense Kit. The masks contained in the kit are N95 rated and meet guidelines set forth by the CDC and the Department of Health and Human Services for influenza (flu) protection. In addition to this kit, you MUST: Stay informed. - Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people. - Take everyday actions to stay healthy. -Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. - Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective. - Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way. - Stay home...
	Influenza Overview including Pandemic Flu and H1N1 2009 (Swine) Flu by Timothy Wells M.D. (Author) Historical overview of Influenza including previous pandemics, biology, illness, and treatment. Updated coverage of the 2009 H1N1 (Swine) Flu epidemic.
	H1N1 Swine Flu-EldonCard Home Blood Type Kit, Be Prepared! by Eldoncard Each kit contains: a blood typing test card, sterile lancet, alcohol swab, sterile gauze plaster, comb application device, transfer pipette, color results chart, step by step instructions, and a laminating sheet to keep as permanent ID record in your wallet or purse.
	GIANT Microbes Plush Doll Swine Flu (Influenza A virus H1N1) by Giant Microbes This little piggy had swine flu, this little piggy had none. Giant Microbes are stuffed 'animals' that look like tiny microbesonly a million times actual size! Each 5-to-7 inch doll is accompanied by an image of the real microbe it represents, as well as information about the microbe. They make great learning tools for parents and educators, as well as amusing gifts for anyone with a sense of humor!
	Global Time Bomb: Surviving the H1N1 Swine Flu Pandemic and Other Global Health Threats by John M. Dorrance (Editor) How might a global flu pandemic affect you and your family? How can you avoid it, and what will you do if someone in your household contracts it? Here you will learn how to identify, prevent, and treat H1N1 swine flu. Information for individuals, caregivers, as well as medical professionals is provided in this complete guide. In addition to swine flu facts, information on other potential global health threats is included.
	On-The-Go Personal Infection Protection Kit (42000) by LifeSecure This kit can only be shipped UPS Ground. This compact, portable kit includes personal protective equipment (PPE), supplies, and sanitizers for infection protection. The kit is designed to accommodate 1 person for up to 2 days and includes such items as N95 respirators, eye protection, vinyl gloves, disposable thermometers, tissues, hand sanitizer, and biohazard bags. Special Features: Personal infection protection supplies Personal protective equipment (PPE) Hygiene/sanitation supplies Packed in a portable, compact, softsided case with an adjustable shoulder strap Contents: For personal protection: (1) instruction card (2) N95 respirators (1) eye shield frame (2) disposable eyeshields (2) pairs vinyl gloves For hygiene and sanitation: (1) hand sanitizer solution (4 oz) (1) SaniZide...
	Swine Flu / H1N1 - The Facts by Terence Stephenson (Author) Conflicting information about the H1N1 flu pandemic has left the public anxious and confused. In this clear and concise book, leading pediatrician Terence Stephenson DM, FRCP, FRCPCH presents all of the key facts about H1N1 flu, and explains in plain and simple English what everyone needs to know about the virus, including: What is H1N1 flu? Just how dangerous is H1N1 flu for children? What can we learn from past pandemics? What are the symptoms? What are the best treatments? What do I need to know about the vaccine? What can I do to help prevent the virus spreading? This useful book gives clear guidance and offers simple yet effective tips to avoid contracting H1N1 flu. It also includes a full list of Frequently Asked...
	Influenzinum 9c Flu Shot Alternative For 2009/2010 Flu Season (6 Doses=6 Week Supply) Brand: Homeocan by Homeocan Flu shot alternative. To be taken once per week. Influenzinum 9c is your best choice as a flu preventive. Influenzinum 9c is the only homeopathic flu product that is updated each year based on the flu strains predicted by the World Health Organization. Specially formulated to stimulate the body's own defense system to resist the onset of the season's flu strains. Shown year after year to be highly effective to prevent the flu. Safe and natural, this helps your immune system, not depress it as other methods to prevent the flu. ACTIVE INGREDIENTS: Influenzinum in a 9 Ch dilution. INDICATIONS: Traditionally used for preventing the flu and its related symptoms. DIRECTIONS FOR USE: Adults: Take the contents of one Influenzinum tube. Allow the contents of the tube to...
	N95 Health Mask Gerson 20 Masks by Gerson The Gerson® 1730 N95 Particulate Respirator is a unique product. First developed for use in industrial settings with its special filtering material proven to protect in non-oil areas. Along with its smooth inner lining ensures worker comfort in high heat and humidity. But the Gerson 1730 also meets CDC Guidelines for fluid resistance and TB exposure control. This is one unique product that serves two purposes. Respiratory protection for your doctors, nurses, healthcare providers and for your maintenance personnel.
	Final Epidemic by Earl Merkel (Author) Causes: Unknown At first, they thought it was a cold or maybe the flu. Then people started dropping where they stood. Symptoms: Unthinkable It could kill in hours. There was no known cure, no vaccine, and the only antidote could kill millions. Diagnosis: Unstoppable. New York, Chicago and Florida are quarantined. International travel is halted. A Japanese doomsday cult commits mass suicide, its final mission accomplished. Physician Carol Mayer was the first person to alert the Center for Disease Control, but now, as the epidemic grows, she has one last hope for finding a vaccine. His name is Beck Casey, a former CIA expert on biological warfare. And the best potential sources for stopping this plague are the worst enemies from his...