First-of-its-kind IBDV test in poultry
Ohio State University’s Center for Diagnostic Assays (CDA) has developed a test for the detection of very virulent infectious bursal disease virus (vvIBDV) in poultry flocks.
Daral Jackwood, an international IBDV expert and a molecular biologist with the University’s Food Animal Health Research Program (FAHRP) on the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center (OARDC) has developed a validated real-time RT-PCR assay (patent pending) for the rapid detection of nucleotide sequences that are unique to vvIBDV strains. This new assay distinguishes vvIBDV strains from non-vvIBDV classic and variant strains.
Necessary for monitoring and control
Jackwood says that, until now, no validated rapid assay for the detection of all known vvIBDV strains existed. “In countries with vvIBDV, this assay is necessary for the effective monitoring and control of this devastating disease. In countries without the virus, the assay would be a first line of defence needed to prevent vvIBDV from entering domestic poultry operations.”
Direct requests from veterinarians and scientists
Jackwood’s experience and successful research record resulted in a direct request from veterinarians and scientists at USDA’s Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service for a molecular vvIBDV assay. APHIS helped OARDC secure part of the funding for this work from the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association and granted the centre permission to obtain vvIBDV genomic material from all over the world.
Getting the test on the market
The next step involves getting the test on the market. Ohio State is currently inviting inquiries from scientific companies interested in discussing a potential collaboration with the university to produce and market a vvIBDV real-time RT-PCR assay kit worldwide.
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