Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 2

Human immunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV-2) is a lentivirus related to HIV-1 that also causes AIDS, although with slower disease progression and lower transmissibility. It is endemic mainly in West Africa, with cases in countries that have historical links to the region. HIV-2 is intrinsically resistant to some antiretroviral drugs and is not detected by many HIV-1 viral load assays, so specific detection is important for correct diagnosis and treatment.

The OneqPCR-realtime™ Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 2 Kit is a ready-to-use assay for the specific detection of Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 2 RNA by one-step real-time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR): reverse transcription and amplification take place in a single tube. Specific primers and a FAM-labelled hydrolysis probe amplify the target, while an internal control detected in the HEX channel reveals possible PCR inhibition or extraction failure. Positive and negative controls are included, and results can be analysed qualitatively or quantitatively using a standard curve.