This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing theresources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject andinvestigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source,and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed isfor the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator.The viral diagnostics core (VDC) was established in late 2003 following the approval of the program during the base grant review process. This core is designed to supply testing for the specific pathogen free colonies. The core is currently functional. Diagnostic tests for SIV, STLV and Herpes B infections are currently provided. For SIV and STLV we are also providing confirmation assays. The algorithm for herpes B involves screening by the VDC followed by confirmation in the National Reference laboratory. New diagnostic tests are being developed and standardized for SRV. Since testing different peptide formats did not offer a good sensitivity, we are also optimizing PCR screening for SRV.The viral diagnostic core processed and tested more than 5,000 samples in 2005 and over 6,000 in 2006. A new strategy for economical sample processing is in progress. We are currently isolating local B virus and SRV strains for further use in diagnostic tests.Real-time PCR is offered as a part of of capabilities of the VDC. The major objectives are: 1. to assist PIs using the facility. In this respect, all of the investigators previously using the rt-PCR core received the needed support. New investigators were helped to implement their procedures. Some of them were allowed to use the space of the Viral Diagnostic Core laboratory to optimize their assays. 2. To provide service for viral quantification. We optimized a rt-PCR assay for the SIVmac/SHIV quantification. This new assay is currently under optimization. We provide quantification assays for SIVagm and SIVrcm. We also provide genequantification (CCR5, TGF-beta, GATA-3, IL6, IFN-gamma). A new piece of equipment was purchased last year (Light Cycler).
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