Detection of Epstein-Barr virus with molecular hybridization techniques.
The cord-blood transformation assay remains the standard method for detecting Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in secretions. However, newer methods are much faster and more sensitive, although most are still regarded as research procedures. The most useful of these are Southern blot hybridization, particularly the variation that employs terminal genomic probe analysis; in situ cytohybridization; and polymerase chain reaction analyses. Use of these methods alone or in combination should disclose the infected cell type, whether the infection is productive or latent, and the presence of multiple strains of EBV. Such information may help establish whether EBV is a causal agent in chronic fatigue syndrome.
Pagano
J S
JS
Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 27599-2975.
D015139:Blotting, Southern; D015342:DNA Probes; D004279:DNA, Viral / Q000032:analysis*; D004854:Herpesvirus 4, Human / Q000235:genetics / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D006801:Humans; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation; D009693:Nucleic Acid Hybridization; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction
D015342:DNA Probes; D004279:DNA, Viral