Meet Daland C. Herrmann, the Senior Scientist behind the development of our newest innovation, the virotype IHNV/VHSV PT-PCR Kit! This triplex real-time RT-PCR Kit enables the simultaneous detection of RNA from both Infectious Hematopoietic Necrosis Virus (IHNV) and Viral Hemorrhagic Septicaemia Virus (VHSV), two of the most significant pathogens affecting salmonid populations. This assay offers high sensitivity and specificity with a fast run time and easy-to-use format. It is also the first and only multiplex IHNV/VHSV RT-PCR Kit approved in Germany by the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI-C 133).
Q: What inspired the development of the virotype IHNV/VHSV RT-PCR Kit?
The lack of standardized, approved multiplex detection kits for IHNV and VHSV in Germany, along with recent outbreaks causing significant losses in regional fish populations and the resulting economic impact on farmers have led INDICAL BIOSCIENCE to develop this kit.
Q: How does the virotype IHNV/VHSV RT-PCR Kit address the key challenges in detecting these pathogens?
Since IHNV cannot be distinguished from VHSV based on pathological findings, molecular detection through real-time RT-PCR is key. Both viruses cause notifiable fish diseases and must be tested for in the EU. With the new multiplex real-time
RT-PCR kit, lab testing for both viral pathogens can be performed in one run, which significantly reduces the time between detection and taking appropriate measures.
FQ: What advantages does this test offer to laboratories and fish farms compared to traditional methods?
It is the first multiplex real-time RT-PCR assay for detecting and differentiating IHNV and VHSV in one run, approved by the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut in Germany. It is commercially produced by INDICAL BIOSCIENCE ensuring high quality throughout its production lifecycle. There is no need for testing labs to establish QC procedures for in-house testing. Simultaneous testing for both pathogens allow labs to better streamline fish pathogens testing and thus speed up the reporting time to farmers. Additionally, using the virotype IHNV/VHSV RT-PCR kit reduces preparation and hands-on time compared to in-house testing methods.
Q: How do you see the virotype IHNV/VHSV RT-PCR Kit contributing to the health of salmonids populations and the sustainability of the fish farming industry?
Early pathogen detection reduces the risk of introducing contaminated fish stocks or spreading the pathogens from one farm or pond to another. Continuous fish stocks surveillance improves salmonid health and fish farm productivity. By reducing the risk of infection and future outbreaks, fish farms contribute to a more sustainable supply of fish to consumers.
