Detection of Antibodies Directed Towards Western Equine Encephalitis Virus by PRNT
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Reference Details
Serological detection of neutralizing antibodies directed towards Western equine encephalitis (WEE) virus by Plaque Reduction Neutralization Test (PRNT).
- Western Equine Encephalitis
Serum. Minimum volume of 250 ml required.
Collect blood in serum separator tubes.
Shipping of specimens shall be done by a TDG certified individual in accordance with TDG regulations. For additional information regarding classification of specimens for the purposes of shipping, consult either Part 2 Appendix 3 of the TDG Regulations or section 3.6.2 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations as applicable.
Suspected WEE infection. Submitted samples will first be analysed by the Viral Zoonoses Diagnostic Laboratory by WEE HAI to determine if the patient has developed anti-WEE antibodies. Samples that are reactive can be further analysed for the presence of neutralizing antibodies. Samples that are HAI non- reactive (negative) will not be tested by PRNT.
Completed Viral Zoonoses requisition including sender laboratory name, address and telephone number. Patient name and / or identifier (specimen reference number), date of birth, test(s) requested, collection date of specimen, date of on-set of symptoms, and clinical and travel history of patient.
This is not a routine test. Please contact the Viral Zoonoses Diagnostic Laboratory before sending specimens.
The PRNT is a specific assay that may be used to document the presence of neutralizing antibodies specific for a particular arbovirus like WEE virus. Serum samples are incubated with virus, and if viral neutralizing antibodies are present, they will bind to the virus and prevent viral infection of cultured cells causing a reduction in the number of plaques detected. The neutralizing titre of a sample is expressed as the reciprocal of the serum dilution at which there is a 90% reduction in the number of plaques detected.
14 Calendar days after the completion of HAI testing.
- WHO. 2007. Guidelines for plaque reduction neutralization testing of human antibodies to dengue viruses.