Sample DNA is first extracted in a separate process e.g., using the QIAamp DNA Mini Kit (recommended extraction method). This is followed by detection of HSV-1- and HSV-2-specific DNA using the Rotor-Gene Q.
The HSV-1/2 RG Master A and HSV-1/2 RG Master B contain reagents and enzymes for the specific amplification of target regions within the HSV-1 and HSV-2 genomes and for the direct detection of the specific amplicon in fluorescence channels Cycling Green and Cycling Red of Rotor-Gene Q instruments.
In addition, the artus HSV-1/2 RG PCR Kit contains a heterologous amplification system (Internal Control) to identify potential failures during the assay process. The Internal Control is measured in the fluorescence channel Cycling Yellow of Rotor-Gene Q instruments.
Probes specific for HSV-1 DNA are labeled with the fluorophore FAM, while probes specific for HSV-2 DNA are labeled with a fluorophore that displays the same characteristics as Cy5. The probe specific for the Internal Control is labeled with the fluorophore JOE. The use of probes labeled with spectrally distinguishable fluorophores enables simultaneous detection and quantification of HSV-1- and HSV-2-specific DNA, as well as detection of the Internal Control in the corresponding channels of the Rotor-Gene Q instrument.