Detection of the presence of the hepatitis C viral genome in immunoglobulin preparations using RT-PCR
Glisić, S.; Alavantić, D.; Medić, P.; Romić, M.; Tomović, O.
Vojnosanitetski Pregled 52(6): 553-556
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-8450 PMID: 8644479 Document Number: 454805
Contemporary methods of molecular genetics were used to investigate the presence of hereditary matter, i.e., virus hepatitis C genome in immunoglobulin preparations of the Institute for blood transfusion of the Republic of Serbia. ELISA test in immunoglobulin preparations indicated the presence of antibodies to an antigen of hepatitis C virus. After RNA isolation and reverse transcription (RT), double reaction of in vitro DNA amplification (PCR) was done using two pairs of oligonucleotide. After several repeated tests and positive control from blood of the diseased it was concluded that neither of 11 investigated immunoglobulin preparations contained the nucleic acid (RNA) of the HCV origin, that meant that all preparations could be used with no danger of virus hepatitis C infection. Regarding the current experience in relation to the use of PCR for testing of contamination by hepatitis C virus in preparations from human blood, that are used in the therapy of various conditions and diseases, it is recommendable to use this method due to its sensitivity and specificity.