Simian sarcoma virus (SSV) and simian sarcoma associated virus (SSAV)

Test codes:
S0021 - Qualitative detection of simian sarcoma virus (SSV) by polymerase chain reaction
S0022 - Qualitative detection of simian sarcoma-associated virus (SSAV) by polymerase chain reaction

Simian sarcoma virus (SSV) belongs to the group of mammalian type C retroviruses and can produce tumors in primates. Originally isolated from a fibrosarcoma in a woolly monkey, SSV is a replication-defective v-onc virus which carries the sis oncogene. In order to propagate, SSV requires a replication-competent helper virus, simian sarcoma virus-associated virus (SSAV).

Although virus isolation can be used to diagnose SSV infection, a long incubation period is required to obtain results. Serological detection of SSV infection is neither sensitive nor specific. It also increases the potential risk of laboratorians from contacting this virus. SSV 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 SSV
• 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 primates

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

Methodologies: Qualitative PCR

Normal range: Nondetected