|
Real time PCR allows simultaneous amplification and quantification of PCR products.
The amplified fragment of BVDV DNA can be detected using a molecular beacon (a short chemically synthesised single-stranded oligonucleotide (20 b.p.)) complementary to the inner part of the amplified fragment of BVDV tat carries a fluorescent label at the 5'-end and a fluorescence quencher at the 3'-end. The beacon undergoes a conformational reorganization in the course of PCR as the fragment of the virus is amplified and forms a hybrid complex with the beacon, spatially separating the fluorescent label and quencher, thus exposing the fluorescent label. By measuring the fluorescence intensity, the results of PCR amplification can be visualized without gel electrophoresis.
A major advantage is that reaction tubes stay closed during fluorescence measurements, which prevents contamination of the PCR products.
The test system allows differentiation between BVD virus and other pestiviruses such as classical swine fever virus.
|