FAQ

We have established PCR assays for the detection of the human pathogenic viruses including Hepatitis B viruses (HBV), Hepatitis C viruses (HCV), Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV1), Human immunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV2), and Human T-cell leukemia virus types I and II (HTLV-I/-II). To determine the transformation of B cells by Epstein Barr virus, we also established an assay for the detection of EBV, which is categorized as risk group 2.

Additionally, we are able to detect Human herpes virus type 8 (HHV-8) and Transfusion transmitted virus (TTV).

Human pathogenic viruses exhibit greater genomic diversity than bacterial contaminants. The human pathogenic viruses consist of DNA and RNA viruses and have different infective characteristics. Thus, different sample materials and procedures are used for the analyses. The following list shows the sample material matching the different virus types:

HIV-1, HIV-2, HTLV-I/-II, EBV: genomic DNA
HCV, EBV: total RNA or cDNA
HBV: DNA from cell culture supernatant

When frozen cultures are sent we will thaw and culture the cells for several days to collect the samples. This additional labour incurs a surcharge. Cryopreserved cultures should be sent on dry ice by courier.

If you send a growing culture, we will immediately collect the samples depending on the assays to be performed. This is the easiest and least expensive way to perform the assays. The culture vessels should be filled with medium and may be sent by conventional mail or courier despatched no later than on Wednesday's.

DNA and/or RNA/cDNA may also be sent. This material should be sent refrigerated or as precipitate at room temperature. Supernatants for HBV detection maybe sent at room temperature.

For viable cells, about 5x10E6 cells are sufficient for the extractions of DNA and RNA (see submission form page 2 for detailed information on how to prepare and how to send the material).

For nucleic acid preparations, the DNA of about 2x10E6 cells is sufficient for our needs. If the detection of hepatitis C virus is ordered, please send an extra preparation of total RNA also from about 2x10E6 cells.

The report consists of a description of the method, the result of the analysis, and a photo of the ethidium bromide stained gel.