Diagnostic Virology Laboratory (DVL)
The Diagnostic Virology Laboratory (DVL) performs isolation and identification of common and novel viruses from diagnostic and research samples. Isolation procedures used are specific to the host animal and suspected pathogen. The DVL has expertise in recognizing morphological changes in cell culture and effects on embryonated avian eggs caused by viral infection. Some of the identification techniques used include PCR, RT-PCR, serum neutralization, serology, electron microscopy and DNA sequencing. The DVL participates in the Select Agent Program and is a member of the USDA National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN).