An external standard method for quantification of human cytomegalovirus by PCR

An external standard method for PCR quantification of HCMV was reported. [α-32P]dATP was used as a tracer. 32P-labelled specific amplification product was separated by agarose gel electrophoresis. A gel piece containing the specific product band was excised and counted in a plastic scintillation counter. Distribution of [α-32P]dATP in the electrophoretic gel plate and effect of separation between the 32P-labelled specific product and free [α-32P]dATP were observed. A standard curve for quantification of HCMV by PCR was established and detective results of quality control templets were presented. The external standard method and the electrophoresis separation effect were appraised. The results showed that the method could be used for relative quantification of HCMV. (author)