Pneumocystis carinii Added to Rat Serology Profiles
January 14, 2011 - Charles River is pleased to announce the addition of Pneumocystis carinii (PCAR [“RRV”]) to our standard rat serology profiles: Rat Prevalent, Tracking, Assessment and Assessment Plus. Whether you submit samples to any of our laboratories worldwide or purchase our Multiplexed Fluorometric ImmunoAssay® (MFIA®) serology reagents for your in-house testing, you will be able to screen samples for P. carinii, one of the prevalent agents found in rats.
While PCR and histology can identify P. carinii when lesions are forming or present, our serology assays can detect the host immune response to this infectious agent after the lesions have resolved. Our in-house diagnostic research and development team has developed and qualified assays for the detection of P. carinii. Our primary serologic test method is the MFIA®, a flexible format that allows us to incorporate multiple controls to reinforce assay accuracy and reliability, providing an extra level of safeguarding. As part of our commitment to providing you the most precise results, confirmatory testing on inconclusive MFIA® results is provided free of charge using an alternative technique, indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA).
In addition, the PCR assay for Pneumocystis is included in our whole animal comprehensive rat health monitoring protocols. This TaqMan® PCR assay offers a wide diagnostic window, which allows us to detect Pneumocystis soon after initial infection and prior to the development of lesions. Pneumocystis TaqMan® PCR is also available as an individual agent test or as part of our Prevalent Rodent Infectious Agent (PRIA) PCR Panel.
At Charles River, we understand the importance of monitoring the health status of your research animals, and it is our goal to continue to enhance our profiles to ensure that the technology we use to screen your colonies is as advanced and comprehensive as possible. Our professional staff members are available to speak with you regarding any aspect of your health surveillance program. Please contact us at askcharlesriver@crl.com.
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