The development and validation of the RT-qPCR method for universal detection of circoviruses in parrots and phylogenetic analysis of strains circulating within the territory of the Czech Republic
BFDV (psittacine beak and feather disease virus) is a serious viral infection particularly seen in young parrots and presenting a significant threat to all those holding exotic birds, including animal parks. For this reason, examination of quarantine animals employing fast and sufficiently sensitive methods is the key factor in preventing the spread of the infection as well as the introduction of the disease into BFDV-free holdings. In order to improve BFDV diagnosis, our lab has developed and validated an RT-qPCR method for universal detection of BFDV.
As a follow-up of the project mentioned above, we are currently working to devise and optimise a universal method for whole-genome sequencing of BFDV regardless of the host species or phylogenetic line. The method will be compatible with both Sanger and NGS sequencing technologies, and will be validated on the panel of PBFDV strains detected in the territory of the Czech Republic; it also has a potential application in confirming RT-qPCR results, both for detailed analysis of the genetic variability of the virus and the phylogenesis.
