Development of a new ultra sensitive real-time PCR assay (ultra sensitive RTQ-PCR) for the quantification of HBV-DNA.

Background: Improved sensitivity of HBV-DNA tests is of critical importance for the management of HBV infection. Our aim was to develop and assess a new ultra sensitive in-house real-time PCR assay for HBV-DNA quantification (ultra sensitive RTQ-PCR).

Results: Previously used HBV-DNA standards were calibrated against the WHO 1st International Standard for HBV-DNA (OptiQuant(R) HBV-DNA Quantification Panel, Accrometrix Europe B.

Virological and immunological response to HAART therapy in a community-based cohort of HIV-1-positive individuals.

Purpose: To determine virological and immunological response to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and to investigate factors influencing response in a community-based setting.

Method: Plasma HIV RNA levels and CD4 cell counts were studied in 168 unselected individuals starting HAART including indinavir or ritonavir or hard-gel saquinavir-containing regimens.

Results: Overall, 60% of the patients reduced their HIV RNA to below 500 Eq/mL, but half of them experienced a subsequent virologic rebound.

Comparative evaluation of the QUANTIPLEX HIV-1 RNA 2.0 and 3.0 (bDNA) assays and the AMPLICOR HIV-1 MONITOR v1.5 test for the quantitation of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 RNA in plasma.

HIV-1 RNA measurements from 84 plasma specimens obtained with the QUANTIPLEX HIV-1 RNA 2.0 and 3.0 (bDNA) assays (Chiron Diagnostics, Emeryville, CA) and with the AMPLICOR HIV-1 MONITOR Test, version 1.