Use of modified oligonucleotides to compensate for sequence polymorphisms in the real-time detection of norovirus

J Virol Methods. 2007 Jun;142(1-2):10-4. doi: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2006.12.009. Epub 2007 Jan 11.

Abstract

Noroviruses are major causative agents of sporadic and outbreak-associated nonbacterial gastroenteritis worldwide. Real-time RT-PCR has rapidly become the principle means for norovirus detection due to its sensitivity and specificity; however sequence variations in the Norovirus genome can cause problems for real-time chemistries. Using a combination of modified bases and minor groove binder-conjugated Eclipse hybridization probes, a one step real-time RT-PCR assay was designed and optimized to detect norovirus genogroups I and II. Additionally, an RNA internal control was incorporated into the assay to monitor nucleic acid extraction and amplification inhibition. As part of this study, a combination of 36 stool and RNA samples were tested and results were compared to a previously described TaqMan assay. An overall correlation of 97% was obtained. After 7 months of clinical testing, a percent positive rate of 39% was determined, with genogroup II accounting for 98% of the positives. Overall, the Eclipse assay is a sensitive and robust method for detecting and typing norovirus genogroups I and II as well as useful for routine clinical testing. Incorporating modified bases helps overcome design limitations due to single nucleotide polymorphisms.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Base Sequence
  • Caliciviridae Infections / diagnosis*
  • Caliciviridae Infections / virology
  • DNA Probes*
  • Feces / virology
  • Gastroenteritis / diagnosis*
  • Gastroenteritis / virology
  • Humans
  • Norovirus / classification*
  • Norovirus / genetics
  • Norovirus / isolation & purification*
  • Polymorphism, Genetic*
  • RNA, Viral / analysis
  • RNA, Viral / isolation & purification
  • Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • DNA Probes
  • RNA, Viral