Simian cytomegalovirus (SCMV)

Test code: S0017 - Qualitative detection of Simian cytomegalovirus (SCMV) by polymerase chain reaction

Simian cytomegalovirus (SCMV) was first described in 1957 as one of seven viruses isolated from the African green monkey (Cercopithecus aethiops). SCMV, also known as simian agent 6 (SA6) at that time, was first recovered from primary African green monkey kidney cell (AGMK) cultures, giving rise to foci of rounded swollen cells after 2 weeks in culture. Examining the prevalence of SCMV in primary AGMK cells obtained from commercial suppliers indicated that more than 50% of these cultures were positive for the presence of the virus. Neutralizing antibodies to SCMV were found in more than 95% of African green monkey sera studied. Infection of African green monkeys by SCMV appears to be widespread.

The use of primary rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) kidney cultures for the production of poliovirus vaccines during the 1950s led to the identification of simian virus 40 (SV40). It was subsequently confirmed that SV40 was a common contaminant of Rhesus monkey culture. Due to the oncogenicity associated with SV40, attempts were made to switch poliovirus vaccine production from rhesus macaque kidney cultures, to ones prepared from African green monkeys. Thus, to ensure a SCMV-free AGMK culture is vital to safe use of poliovirus vaccines.

Although virus isolation can be used to diagnose SCMV infection, a long incubation period is required to obtain results. Viral culture also increases the potential risk of laboratory personnel contacting this virus. Furthermore, viral culture is less sensitive, reliable and specific than newer polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based techniques.

SCMV detection by PCR is the most rapid, sensitive and specific method for the diagnosis of this infection.

Utilities:

• Confirm the disease causing agent
• Ensure that animal colonies are free of SCMV
• Early prevention of spread of this virus among a colony
• Minimize personnel exposure to this virus
• Safety monitoring of biological products and vaccines that derive from monkeys

Specimen requirement: 1 ml whole blood in EDTA (purple top) or ACD (yellow top) tube, shipped overnight at room temperature.

For specimen types other than those listed here, please call to confirm specimen acceptability and shipping instructions.

For all specimen types, if there will be a delay in shipping, or during very warm weather, refrigerate specimens until shipped and ship with a cold pack unless more stringent shipping requirements are specified. Frozen specimens should be shipped so as to remain frozen in transit. See shipping instructions for more information.

Turnaround time: 2 business days

Methodology: Qualitative PCR

Normal range: Nondetected