LOCALIZATION OF FOOT-AND-MOUTH-DISEASE VIRUS-RNA IN TISSUE-CULTURE INFECTED-CELLS VIA IN-SITU POLYMERASE CHAIN-REACTION

Foot and mouth disease virus RNA was visualized in infected primary ti ssue culture cells by in situ PCR incorporating digoxigenin-labeled dU TP. The viral RNA polymerase gene was used as a target for amplificati on. Infected cells revealed cytoplasmic staining, predominantly perinu clear. The intensity of staining was in proportion to the degree of cy topathology observed and similar to the results obtained using immunop eroxidase staining. The in situ PCR technique for FMDV detection could be applied to formalin-fixed samples and be useful for the study of p ersistent infections.