Comparison between RT-PCR and viral solation for detection OFH9 subtype of avian influenza viruses

ABSTRACT

During 2004-2006, a total number of 22 tissue samples obtained from poultry flocks suspected to respiratory diseases submitted to avian virology laboratory of faculty of veterinary medicine, were prepared for avian influenza virus [AIV] isolation in embryonated chicken eggs, according to the standard method. RT-PCR was established on tissue samples using specific primers for H9 gene. 3.5 Amplified PCR products were 435 bp in length. Analytical sensitivity of the RT-PCR was 10 EID50 and sensitivity, specificity and correlation rate compared with virus isolation, were 100%, 94% and 95%, respectively. The results showed that the RT-PCR assay using H9 gene specific primers, directly on tissue samples, could be used in rapid detection and subtyping of H9 AIVs as a useful alternative to virus isolation assay