RT-QuIC is a next generation testing technology that fundamentally alters the way we test for Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD).
Similar to real-time PCR for bacteria and viruses, RT-QuIC detects abnormal prions through amplification and detection of fluorescent signal.
Standardized reagents for consistent results
Minimizes variability between individuals or labs
Little optimization required
Reagents are ready-to-use
No filtration or centrifugation required
Less handling leads to less opportunity for human error
Saves time
Maximal sensitivity with minimal spontaneous protein conversion
Sensitive detection in many sample types
Reduces risk of false positives
Versatile and efficient
Can be used with many tissue types, including obex, lymph nodes, and rectal biopsies.
High-throughput – can be performed in 96- or 384-well plates.
Learn How to Perform the VMRD RT-QuIC Test
Testimonials
The value of using RT-QuIC reagents from VMRD is quality of the product and consistency of reagents while working to standardize protocols. The VMRD suite of reagents provides that consistency not just with the substrate, but with the dilution and running buffers as well. Additionally, the reagents are easy to use and do not require extra processing during the course of performing RT-QuIC beyond what might be required for prion purification or concentration of a specific sample source.
Michelle Lucey (Gibison), PhD
Senior Research Investigator @ University of Pennsylvania Wildlife Futures Program
Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a rapidly spreading problem among wild and captive cervids. In the US, state and federal agencies are actively seeking ways to control this fatal disease.
RT-QuIC testing offers great potential to address key issues in CWD research and management:
EASIER SAMPLING PROCESS FOR HUNTERS
LIVE ANIMAL TESTING USING RECTAL BIOPSIES (RAMALT)
HIGH SENSITIVITY FOR EFFECTIVE POST-MORTEM TESTING & SURVEILLANCE
EXPANDED INSIGHT INTO CWD GEOGRAPHICAL SPREAD & TRANSMISSION
HIGH SENSITIVITY FOR EFFECTIVE POST-MORTEM TESTING & SURVEILLANCE
EXPANDED INSIGHT INTO CWD GEOGRAPHICAL SPREAD & TRANSMISSION
EASIER SAMPLING PROCESS FOR HUNTERS
LIVE ANIMAL TESTING USING RECTAL BIOPSIES (RAMALT)
References
Cooper, Sarah K et al. “Detection of CWD in cervids by RT-QuIC assay of third eyelids.” PloS one vol. 14,8 e0221654. 28 Aug. 2019, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0221654
Tewari, Deepanker et al. “Detection of chronic wasting disease in feces and recto-anal mucosal associated lymphoid tissues with RT-QuIC in a naturally infected farmed white-tailed deer herd.” Frontiers in veterinary science vol. 9 959555. 13 Sep. 2022, doi:10.3389/fvets.2022.959555>
Henderson, Davin M et al. “Progression of chronic wasting disease in white-tailed deer analyzed by serial biopsy RT-QuIC and immunohistochemistry.” PloS one vol. 15,2 e0228327. 14 Feb. 2020, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0228327
Haley, N J et al. “Cross-validation of the RT-QuIC assay for the antemortem detection of chronic wasting disease in elk.” Prion vol. 14,1 (2020): 47-55. doi:10.1080/19336896.2020.1716657
Holz, Carine L et al. “Evaluation of Real-Time Quaking-Induced Conversion, ELISA, and Immunohistochemistry for Chronic Wasting Disease Diagnosis.” Frontiers in veterinary science vol. 8 824815. 18 Jan. 2022, doi:10.3389/fvets.2021.824815
Haley, Nicholas J et al. “Chronic wasting disease management in ranched elk using rectal biopsy testing.” Prion vol. 12,2 (2018): 93-108. doi:10.1080/19336896.2018.1436925
Hoover, Clare E et al. “Pathways of Prion Spread during Early Chronic Wasting Disease in Deer.” Journal of virology vol. 91,10 e00077-17. 28 Apr. 2017, doi:10.1128/JVI.00077-17
Haley, N J et al. “Management of chronic wasting disease in ranched elk: conclusions from a longitudinal three-year study.” Prion vol. 14,1 (2020): 76-87. doi:10.1080/19336896.2020.1724754
Haley, Nicholas J, and Jürgen A Richt. “Evolution of Diagnostic Tests for Chronic Wasting Disease, a Naturally Occurring Prion Disease of Cervids.” Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 6,3 35. 5 Aug. 2017, doi:10.3390/pathogens6030035