Gene-Probe Electrodes to Detect Enterically-Transmitted RNA Virus Pathogens
Abstract
Viral infections are the most common cause of human disease and are responsible for at least 60% of the illnesses that cause physician visits. These organisms are difficult to detect as complex tests either take days to generate accurate results or lack sensitivity, specificity, and quantitative capability. AndCare reports the demonstration of a new electrochemical approach to nucleic acid based detection that can rapidly detect, identify and quantify viruses in crude (unpurified) samples. This same system can be used as a simple, quantitative detector for systems such as reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) that amplify viral nucleic acid sequences. Proof of principle was obtained by modifying AndCare's disposable colloidal gold electrodes to generate a current when a hybrid is formed between a gene probe and the specific RNA sequence of a target virus. We have shown direct detection of PT-PCR product of polio virus at levels as low as 5 plaque forming units (pfu) of virus taken from a tissue culture sample containing 5 x 10(exp 4) pfu/mL. This is a breakthrough in viral research, since our methodology can speed viral detection, identification and quantification, and thereby has the potential to revolutionize health care related to viral disease.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADB227451
Entities
People
- Robert W. Henkens