Author
Submitted to: Animal Influenza Virus
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 2/3/2014 Publication Date: 6/11/2014 Citation: Spackman, E. 2014. Influenza subtype identification with molecular methods. In: Spackman, E., editor. Animal Influenza Virus: Methods in Molecular Biology. Volume 1161. p. 119-123. Interpretive Summary: Gene sequencing and RT-PCR based methods are the molecular alternative to serology for the identification of influenza virus hemagglutinin and neuraminidase antigenic subtypes. Compared to serology both RT-PCR and sequencing are preferred subtyping methods because of the number of reference reagents which need to be prepared for serological methods and results of molecular methods are often easier to interpret. The best method to utilize will depend on the goals of the work being conducted and the resources available. The salient features and basic out-line of work flow for subtype identification by molecular methods will be discussed. Technical Abstract: Gene sequencing and RT-PCR based methods are the molecular alternative to serology for the identification of influenza virus hemagglutinin and neuraminidase antigenic subtypes. Compared to serology both RT-PCR and sequencing are preferred subtyping methods because of the number of reference reagents which need to be prepared for serological methods and results of molecular methods are often easier to interpret. The best method to utilize will depend on the goals of the work being conducted and the resources available. The salient features and basic out-line of work flow for subtype identification by molecular methods will be discussed. |