A New Multiplex Real-Time RT-PCR for Simultaneous Detection and Differentiation of Avian Bornaviruses

Avian bornaviruses were first described in 2008 as the causative agents of proventricular dilatation disease (PDD) parrots and their relatives (Psittaciformes). To date, 15 genetically highly diverse avian covering at least five viral species have been discovered different bird orders. Currently, primary diagnostic tool is detection RNA by conventional or real-time RT-PCR (rRT-PCR). One drawbacks this usage either specific assays, allowing one particular virus, assays with a broad spectrum, which, however, do not allow for simultaneous specification detected virus. facilitate bornaviruses, multiplex assay was developed. Whole-genome sequences various aligned. Primers designed to recognize conserved regions within overlapping X/P gene probes selected detect virus species-specific target region. The optimization resulted sensitive Psittaciformes, Passeriformes, aquatic birds. Finally, new rRT-PCR successfully employed field samples from species. This will serve powerful epidemiological studies improve bornavirus detection.