Evaluation of Flinders Technology Associates Cards as a Non-lethal Sampling Device for Molecular Diagnosis of Betanodavirus in Asian Seabass, Lates calcarifer (Bloch, 1790)

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the utility and efficiency of the Flinders Technology Associates (FTA®) Elute Card (Whatman®) as a sampling device and storage platform for RNA from Betanodavirus infected biological sample (viz.,cell culture supernatant). The retrieval of target RNA from FTA Elute Card discs with a diameter ranging from 1.2 - 2mm was found to be satisfactory for detection of Betanodavirus by reverse transcription-nested polymerase chain reaction (RT-nPCR). The viral RNA on the cards could be detected by RT-nPCR for a minimum period of 30 days of storage at 4°C, though at lower efficiency after 21 days of storage. In conclusion, FTA cards protocol provides a supplementary method for quick and easy collection of samples, preservation of RNA on a dry storage basis and detection of Betanodavirus infected fish.