A novel molecular test for influenza B virus detection and lineage differentiation.
Contemporary influenza B viruses are classified into two groups known as Yamagata and Victoria lineages. The co-circulation of two viral lineages in recent years urges for a robust and simple diagnostic test for detecting influenza B viruses and for lineage differentiation. In this study, a SYBR green-based asymmetric PCR assay has been developed for influenza B virus detection. Apart from identifying influenza B virus, the assay contains sequence-specific probes for lineage differentiation. This allows identifying influenza B virus and detecting influenza B viral lineage in a single reaction. The test has been evaluated by a panel of respiratory specimens. Of 108 influenza B virus-positive specimens, 105 (97%) were positive in this assay. None of the negative control respiratory specimens were positive in the test (N = 60). Viral lineages of all samples that are positive in the assay (N = 105) can also be classified correctly. These results suggest that this assay has a potential for routine influenza B virus surveillance.
Centre of Influenza Research and School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China.
Chloe K S
CK
Wong
Gary C H
GC
Tsang
Kwok-Hung
KH
Chan
Olive T W
OT
Li
Malik
M
Peiris
Leo L M
LL
Poon
D052160:Benzothiazoles; D003959:Diamines; D060005:Genotyping Techniques / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D009981:Influenza B virus / Q000145:classification* / Q000235:genetics* / Q000302:isolation & purification; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000821:virology*; D025202:Molecular Diagnostic Techniques / Q000379:methods*; D009930:Organic Chemicals / Q000378:metabolism; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction / Q000379:methods*; D011804:Quinolines; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013194:Staining and Labeling / Q000379:methods
D052160:Benzothiazoles; D003959:Diamines; D009930:Organic Chemicals; D011804:Quinolines; C098022:SYBR Green I
RT-PCR; Victoria; Yamagata; influenza B virus; lineage differentiation