Calicivirus Laboratory

Testing Services

Molecular assays using reverse transcription-PCR are the most common method for detection of noroviruses. The laboratory currently uses conventional PCR assays and confirms the identity of PCR products by nucleic acid sequencing. Real-time PCR assays are being developed for norovirus detection. Sample types accepted by the laboratory include stool specimens from gastroenteritis outbreaks and biopsy specimens from immunocompromised individuals, particularly intestinal transplant recipients. Investigations are in progress towards the detection of noroviruses in other biological, food, and environmental specimen types and the expansion of assays for additional intestinal virus pathogens.