Localization of human herpesvirus type 8 in human sperms by in situ PCR.

Objectives: Defining the mechanism of infection with human herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8) or Kaposi's sarcoma associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is an important clinical issue. HHV-8 has been linked to Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) development in HIV-1-infected individuals, and KS develops in 40% of those infected with both viruses. A series of epidemiological data suggest that sexual transmission is one of the routes of transmission for HHV-8.

Localization of human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV-8) in the Kaposi's sarcoma tissues and the semen specimens of HIV-1 infected and uninfected individuals by utilizing in situ polymerase chain reaction.

Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is a form of skin cancer, most commonly found in individuals suffering from acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS. However, before the worldwide infection of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the rare occurrence of KS was confined to two distinct groups of individuals. In the Western world, the classical form of KS was often found in older men (60-70 years of age) from the Mediterranean area.

Detection of nucleic acids in cells and tissues by in situ polymerase chain reaction.

The solution-based polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method for amplification of defined gene sequences has proved a valuable tool not only for basic researchers but also for clinical scientists. Using even a minute amount of DNA or RNA and choosing a thermostable enzyme from a large variety of sources, one can enlarge the amount of the gene of interest, which can be analyzed and sequenced. Therefore, genes, or segments of gene sequences present only in a small sample of cells or small fraction of mixed cellular populations can be examined.

Viral burden and disease progression in HIV-1-infected patients with sickle cell anemia.

The spleen and lymph nodes are major sites of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) replication, mutation, and genetic variation in vivo. If a major portion of the lymphatic tissue, such as the spleen, is removed or otherwise is unavailable for invasion by the HIV-1 virus, will the course of the infection be altered, resulting in a prolonged symptom-free interval or even increased survival? The spleen of most adults with sickle cell anemia (SS) is nonfunctional due to recurrent episodes of microinfarction. If autosplenectomized SS patients are exposed to HIV-1, they may be ideal candidates to examine the question of whether absence of splenic function at the time of infection will positively alter the course of HIV-1-related disease.

Self-seal reagent: evaporation control for molecular histology procedures without chambers, clips or fingernail polish.

Sensitive nucleic acid based detection methods such as in situ PCR, in situ RT-PCR and PRINS have great potential in the areas of developmental biology, pathogenesis and diagnostics. However, control of evaporation from in situ reactions is critical to ensure reliable data. Self-Seal Reagent, a component added directly to the in situ reaction mixture, effectively controls evaporation during in situ procedures by creating an evaporation-limiting barrier around the periphery of a standard cover glass as the reaction proceeds.