Diagnostic assay

摘要

The present invention relates generally to a nucleic acid-based assay to detect the presence of a viral pathogen and, in particular, hepatitis B virus. More particularly, the present invention provides a single-step amplification assay to detect hepatitis B viral nucleic acid sequences. The assay of the present invention is readily adaptable for automation and permits the rapid through-put of samples to be tested. The present invention further provides agents useful for performing a nucleic acid-based detection assay for hepatitis B virus and a kit comprising said agents.