METHODS FOR DIAGNOSING HUMAN IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS INFECTIONS

摘要

Provided is a method for identifying human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in a sample. The invention involves use of a plurality of fluorescently labeled oligonucleotide probes and flow cytometry to detect the presence or absence of HIV in macrophages that are obtained from a mucosal surface. The invention is particularly useful for detecting HIV infection prior to seroconversion.

主权项

1. A method for detecting human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in a sample comprising:
i) providing a sample obtained from a mucosal surface, wherein the sample comprises macrophages; ii) contacting the sample with a plurality of fluorescently labeled oligonucleotide probes having distinct sequences, wherein the probes are complementary to HIV mRNA; and iii) using fluorescence in situ hybridization in combination with flow cytometry to identify macrophages as infected with HIV based on a fluorescent signal emitted from the macrophages or as not infected with HIV based on a lack of a fluorescent signal emitted from the macrophages.