A Molecular-Based Assay for Quantifying Influenza A and B Viruses

Abstract

Source: Otto, C. C. et al., Rapid Molecular Detection and Differentiation of Influenza Viruses A and B. J. Vis. Exp. (2017)

The video demonstrates an assay for quantifying influenza viruses A and B. This assay employs nicking endonuclease amplification with influenza-specific primers and target detection using molecular beacon probes.

Protocol

All procedures involving sample collection have been performed in accordance with the institute's IRB guidelines.

1. Before Running the Assay

NOTE: The Influenza A and B assay is approved for nasopharyngeal swab specimens and for nasopharyngeal swabs stored in viral transport media. Swabs are included in the kit and should be used for optimal performance. However, rayon, foam, flocked swabs, or polyester nasal swabs can also be used to collect nasal swab samples.

1. To collect a nasal swab sample, insert the swab into the nostril that has the most visible drainage or tha....

Materials

List of materials used in this article

Name	Company	Catalog Number	Comments
Alere i Instrument	Alere	NAT-000 (Global), NAT-024 (US)
Alere i Influenza A & B 24 Test Kit	Alere	425-000 (Global), 425-024 (US)
Alere i Barcode Scanner	Alere	EQ001001
Alere Universal Printer	Alere	55115 (Global), alereiprinter (US)
200 µL precision pipette
200 µL disposable pipette tips
Viral transport medium	Remel	M4-RT