Real-time, or quantitative, polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is quickly supplanting other molecular methods for detecting the nucleic acids of human and other animal pathogens owing to the speed and robustness of the technology. As the aquatic animal health community moves toward implementing national diagnostic testing schemes, it will need to evaluate how qPCR technology should be employed. This review outlines the basic principles of qPCR technology, considerations for assay development, standards and controls, assay performance, diagnostic validation, implementation in the diagnostic laboratory, and quality assurance and control measures. These factors are fundamental for ensuring the validity of qPCR assay results obtained in the diagnostic laboratory setting.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2011 |
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Title | Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection of aquatic animal pathogens in a diagnostic laboratory setting |
DOI | 10.1080/08997659.2011.620217 |
Authors | Maureen K. Purcell, Rodman G. Getchell, Carol A. McClure, S.E. Weber, Kyle A. Garver |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Journal of Aquatic Animal Health |
Index ID | 70043655 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Western Fisheries Research Center |