HIV viral RNA extraction in wax immiscible filtration assisted by surface tension (IFAST) devices.

ABSTRACT: The monitoring of viral load is critical for proper management of antiretroviral therapy for HIV-positive patients. Unfortunately, in the developing world, significant economic and geographical barriers exist, limiting access to this test. The complexity of current viral load assays makes them expensive and their access limited to advanced facilities. We attempted to address these limitations by replacing conventional RNA extraction, one of the essential processes in viral load quantitation, with a simplified technique known as immiscible filtration assisted by surface tension (IFAST). Furthermore, these devices were produced via the embossing of wax, enabling local populations to produce and dispose of their own devices with minimal training or infrastructure, potentially reducing the tot

SUBMITTER: Berry SM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4715211 | biostudies-literature | 2014 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature