PCR Identification and Differentiation of Baboon Cytomegalovirus From Other Human and Nonhuman Primate Cytomegalovirus.

Background: Differential identification of baboon alpha, beta, and gamma herpesviruses is an essential technology in order to monitor xenozoonotic transmission of baboon viruses to foreign species organ and/or cell recipients. We present polymerase chain reaction techniques that will differentiate known baboon cytomegaloviruses (CMV) from their closely related counterparts found in humans. Methods and Results: Polymerase chain reaction techniques for identification of the known beta herpesviruses commonly present in the baboon are reported.

Rapid Identification and Differentiation of Baboon Alphaherpesvirus SA8 From Closely Related HSV-1 and HSV-2 in Xenograft Transplant Recipients.

Background: Rapid differential diagnosis of SA8 infection in humans following xenograft transplantation is an essential part of organ cell donor recipients. Methods and Results: We have developed a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based test using synthetic oligonucleotide primers and probe to detect SA8 DNA in clinical samples. After assessing the specificity of the PCR for detection of laboratory SA8 isolates, the method was used in the investigation of human and baboon specimens and compared to virus culture techniques.