Hantavirus PCR Kit

Qualitative Real-Time RT-PCR Detection of Hantavirus

This kit is an in-vitro real-time reverse transcription PCR assay developed for the qualitative detection of Hantavirus RNA in human clinical specimens, including whole blood (EDTA), plasma, and serum. The assay uses hydrolysis probe-based detection to ensure high specificity and sensitivity in identifying viral RNA in clinical samples. The master mix contains specific primers and probes for Hantavirus together with an internal control, enabling simultaneous target detection and validation of extraction quality and amplification performance. The internal control assists in detecting inhibition and confirming reliable sample processing.

Molecular Background

Hantaviruses are a globally distributed group of rodent-borne, negative-sense single-stranded RNA viruses that can cause serious human disease. Infection typically occurs through inhalation of aerosolized rodent excreta such as urine, feces, or saliva. Some emerging strains, including Andes virus, have also shown limited human-to-human transmission in close-contact situations.

Clinical manifestations vary depending on the viral species and geographic region, but are generally associated with two major syndromes:

• Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) – predominantly reported in the Americas, causing severe respiratory distress and pulmonary edema
• Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS) – more common in Europe and Asia, associated with renal failure, thrombocytopenia, and hemorrhage

Early diagnosis is critical because Hantavirus RNA may only be detectable for a short period during acute infection before seroconversion occurs. Molecular RT-qPCR testing offers a rapid and highly sensitive method for early confirmation. Click the following link for more information: https://www.rivm.nl/hantavirusinfectie

Assay Performance & Utility

The assay enables rapid detection of Hantavirus RNA in blood-derived specimens, including whole blood, plasma, and serum. Real-time RT-qPCR technology provides sensitive detection even when viral RNA is present at low concentrations in early-stage infection.

Hydrolysis probe technology ensures precise target detection:

• Fluorescence in the FAM channel indicates the presence of Hantavirus RNA
• Fluorescence in the HEX channel confirms internal control amplification and sample quality

The ready-to-use format reduces hands-on time, while hot-start and UDG technologies improve assay robustness by minimizing contamination and non-specific amplification.

Technical Specifications

• Assay Type: Qualitative Real-Time RT-PCR
• Target: Hantavirus RNA (Andes virus)
• Detection Channels: FAM (Hantavirus), HEX (Internal Control)
• Sample Types: Whole blood (EDTA), plasma, serum
• Input Material: Extracted RNA
• Technology: Hydrolysis probe-based one-step RT-qPCR
• Internal Control: Included (extraction & inhibition control)
• Storage: -18°C to -25°C
• Pack Size: 100 reactions
• Compatible Instruments: ABI 7500, QuantStudio series, Bio-Rad CFX, Rotor-Gene Q, LightCycler 480, and equivalent systems