Microarray for species-specific detection of Morbillivirus

Objective A microarray was established to detect Morbillivirus (measles virus,canine distemper virus,Peste des petits ruminants virus,rinderpest virus,porcine distemper virus,dolphin distemper virus,etc.) at the species level. Methods After sequences were downloaded from GenBank,species-specific probes were designed using software Primer Premier5.0. Then,a microarray was prepared with MG2-610. Samples were amplified by HEX-fluoresced PCR primers and hybridized to a microarray,and hybridization results were scanned and studied by scanner. The sensitivity,specificity,and reproducibility of the microarray was determined with cultured viruses and clinical specimens. The stability of microarray was tested after it was stored for 3,6,9,and 12 months at 4 ℃. Results This microarray was specific for Morbillivirus,which did not cross-react with other viruses and cells. The sensitivity of the gene chip was 10-2TCID50 which is 100 times higher than that of PCR. Detection of specimens with the microarray was consistent with PCR at a rate of 100%.The detection sensitivity and specificity remained unchanged after the kit was assembled for 12 months. Conclusion This study describes a novel assay for detection of Morbillivirus with a high level of sensitivity and specificity,and this assay is suited to use in epidemiological studies and species-specific detection.