A Rapid Real-time
PCR Assay for Determination of HCV Genotypes 1, 2 and 3a
The
genotypes
of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in serum
of patients have been described as independent predictors of success of antiviral
therapy. Therefore, different antiviral regimens have been proposed depending
on the infecting HCV genotype. HCV
strain is usually determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification
of genome followed by sequencing or by line-probe assays. In
the current study, Norwegian researchers report a new one step real-time PCR assay
for genotyping of HCV strains that are prevalent in patients in Norway. HCV
types 1, 2 and 3a were genotyped in 37 patient serum samples with 100%
correlation to genotyping by nucleotide sequence analysis and line-probe assays.
Genotyping
was also confirmed with an HCV genotype panel from the National Institute for
Biological Standards and Control. This
assay does not require manipulation of amplified PCR products, and it involves
very little hands on and analysis time. The
study authors conclude, “This assay can be used for rapid genotyping of HCV-RNA
in infected patients to aid physicians decide suitability of patients for treatment
and subsequent length of treatment.” For
more information, read the full text of the article (See “Reference” below). You
may also email the lead investigator of the study, Amir Moghaddam, at amoghaddam@furst.no 11/07/06 Reference
A
Moghaddam, N Reinton and O Dalgard. A rapid
real-time PCR assay for determination of hepatitis C virus genotypes 1, 2 and
3a. Journal of Viral Hepatitis 13(4): 222-229. April 2006.
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