2 research outputs found
Dried Blood Spots Collected on Filter Paper: An International Resource for the Diagnosis and Genetic Characterization of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type-1
The collection of dried blood spots (DBS) on filter paper provides a
powerful approach for the development of large- scale, population-based
screening programs. DBS methods are particularly valuable in developing
countries and isolated rural regions where resources are limited. Large
numbers of field specimens can be economically collected and shipped to
centralized reference laboratories for genetic and (or) serological
analysis. Alternatively, the dried blood can be stored and used as an
archival resource to rapidly establish the frequency and distribution
of newly recognized mutations, confirm patient identity or track the
origins and emergence of newly identified pathogens. In this report, we
describe how PCR-based technologies are beginning to interface with
international screening programmes for the diagnosis and genetic
characterization of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). In
particular, we review recent progress using DBS specimens to resolve
the HIV-1 infection status of neonates, monitor the genetic evolution
of HIV-1 during early infancy and establish a sentinel surveillance
system for the systematic monitoring of HIV-1 genetic variation in
Asia