Real time PCR for detection of Aujeszky's disease virus

The aim of this study was to validate a low-cost real-time PCR for a quick and sensitive diagnosis of the disease. The fluorofore used was a DNA intercalating agent, one of the cheaper detection systems. Primers amplified a 123 base pairs fragment of the gene coding for glycoprotein D. PCR was tested on 25 samples of pig brain positive for AD and 85 samples negative in viral isolation and serum neutralization. The detection limit was calculated on samples of pig brain contaminated with a Brazilian isolate of SuHV-1. The technique had a detection limit of 10(-0,5) TCID50/50 mu L. PCR was able to distinguish nonspecific reactions due to primer dimers (thus avoiding false positives) and get faster results.