A broad-based probe-free qPCR assay for detection and discrimination of three human herpes viruses
Year: 2023
Type: article
Abstract: Primary infection or reactivation of latent human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) or herpes simplex viruses (HSV) 1 or 2 during pregnancy can transmit the virus in utero or during natural childbirth to the fetus. The majority of these infections are asymptomatic at birth but may present later with potentially lethal disseminated infection or meningitis (HSV), or long-term neurodevelopmental sequelae including sensorineural hearing loss or neurodevelopmental impairments (HCMV). Unfortunately, early signs and symptoms of disseminated viral infections may be misdiagnosed as bacterial sepsis. Therefore, immediate testing for viral etiologies may not be ordered or even considered by skilled clinicians. In asymptomatic HCMV infections, early detection is necessary to monitor for and treat future neurologic sequelae. In acutely ill-appearing infants, specific detection of viruses against other disease-causing agents is vital to inform correct patient management, including early administration of the correct antimicrobial(s). An ideal test should be rapid, inexpensive, require low sample volumes, and demonstrate efficacy in multiple tissue matrices to aid in timely clinical decision-making for neonatal infections. This work discusses the development of a rapid probe-free qPCR assay for HSV and HCMV that enables early and specific detection of these viruses in neonates. The assay's probe free chemistry would allow easier extension to a broad-based multiplexed pathogenic panel as compared to assays utilizing sequence-specific probes or nested PCR.
Source: Journal of Virological Methods
Institutions: University of California San Diego, University of Utah
Language: English
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,120
Funders: Burroughs Wellcome Fund, University of Utah, National Institutes of Health, University of California, San Diego, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
OpenAlex ID: W4387167452