Human norovirus strains cannot be propagated in the laboratory and current detection methods are based on RNA detection methods such as RT-PCR.  Unfortunately RNA-based methods cannot distinguish infectious virions from damaged virions unless the capsid has been completely destroyed.   In order to infect the host cell, a virus must first bind to its receptor.  We have exploited this fact to develop a means of separating potentially infectious virus from inactive virus using virus receptor-like glycoproteins attached to magnetic beads. This extraction method when coupled with RT-PCR extraction should reduce the detection of inactive norovirus virions that are not a threat to public health.  The utility of this method for testing of shellfish and other foods is being evaluated.

Novel methods for detection of foodborne viruses

244th National Meeting (2012)

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