Validation of one-step reverse transcription digital PCR assays for Norovirus GI

Abstract

Regular monitoring of Norovirus presence in environmental and food samples is crucial due to its high transmission rates and outbreak potential. For detecting Norovirus GI, reverse transcription qPCR method is commonly used, but its sensitivity can be affected by assay performance. This study shows significantly reduced assay performance in digital PCR or qPCR when using primers targeting Norovirus GI genome 5291–5319 (NC_001959), located on the hairpin of the predicted RNA structure. It is highly recommended to avoid this region in commercial kit development or diagnosis to minimizing potential risk of false negatives.