PRODUCT FEATURES
- Exceptional value for money
- Rapid detection of all clinically relevant subtypes
- Positive copy number standard curve for quantification
- Highly specific detection profile
- High priming efficiency
- Broad dynamic detection range (>6 logs)
- Sensitive to < 100 copies of target
- Accurate controls to confirm findings
INTRODUCTION TO FELINE CALCIVIRUS
Feline Calicivirus (FCV) is a single stranded RNA virus which typically causes a selflimiting oral and upper respiratory tract disease in cats. FCV belongs to the Caliciviridae family of viruses which also includes significant human pathogens such as norovirus and sapovirus. The genome is approximately 7.7 kb long, it is polyadenylated at the 3’ end and bound by a virally-encoded protein at the 5’-end. It encodes three open reading frames (ORFs). ORF 1 codes for the non-structural proteins including a viral protease and an RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. ORF 2 codes for the major capsid protein and shows sequence variability depending on strain, and ORF 3 encodes a minor structural protein.
Cats can be infected with FCV via the nasal, oral or conjunctival routes. Indirect transmission is also possible, especially in an environment such as a cattery where secretions may contaminate cages, feed and personnel. The virus can persist for several weeks when on dried surfaces at room temperature and longer in colder wetter conditions. Most infected cats shed the virus in secretions within 30 days of being infected. Some remain carriers and shedders for life, although most will eliminate the disease. The virus predominantly replicates in the oral and respiratory tissues, although some strains vary in their tissue tropisms and pathogenicity and it may also affect the joints or skin.
The most common clinical sign of the disease is oral ulcerations which are usually observed on the tip of the tongue and can rupture with necrosis of the overlying epithelium. Lesions can also be observed in the joints of infected cats which can lead to lameness as a result of acute synovitis. Other symptoms that are observed include conjunctivitis, sneezing, fever, anorexia, ocular and nasal discharge, excessive salivation, gingivitis and oedema. Diagnosis of FCV is difficult without specific tests because the symptoms are similar to other feline respiratory diseases, especially feline herpes virus.
SPECIFICITY
The Primerdesign genesig Kit for Feline calicivirus (FCV) genomes is designed for the in vitro quantification of FCV genomes. The kit is designed to have a broad detection profile. Specifically, the primers represent 100% homology with over 95% of the NCBI database reference sequences available at the time of design.
The dynamics of genetic variation means that new sequence information may become available after the initial design. Primerdesign periodically reviews the detection profiles of the kits and when required releases new versions.