Influenza subtype identification with molecular methods

Abstract

Gene sequencing and RT-PCR based methods are the molecular alternative to serology for the identification of influenza virus hemagglutinin and neuraminidase antigenic subtypes. Compared to serology both RT-PCR and sequencing are preferred subtyping methods because of the number of reference reagents which need to be prepared for serological methods and results of molecular methods are often easier to interpret. The best method to utilize will depend on the goals of the work being conducted and the resources available. The salient features and basic outline of workflow for subtype identification by molecular methods will be discussed.