Atila HIV Assay Kit (Digital PCR)

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) belongs to the genus Lentivirus and can cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are approximately 38 million people living with HIV/AIDS in the world. Two types of HIV have been characterized: HIV-1 and HIV-2. HIV-1 is more virulent and more infectious, and most cases worldwide are caused by HIV-1. The HIV-1 genome consists of two identical single-stranded RNA molecules that are approximately 9200-9600 nucleotides long. HIV-1 is transmitted by exposure to contaminated blood or blood and plasma products, exposure to certain body tissues or fluids, by sexual contact or by an infected mother to the newborn child.

The Atila HIV Assay Kit comes in two formats, a droplet digital reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-ddPCR) assay using Bio-Rad QX200/QX600™ system or a digital reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-dPCR) assay using QIAcuity™ Digital™ PCR System. Both are designed for absolute quantification of HIV-1 RNA using Atila’s proprietary digital amplification technology. This method improves the efficiency and precision of viral RNA quantification by minimizing nonspecific amplification and cross-interference among multiple targets. DNA oligos are designed to specifically detect HIV RNA. The assay does not discriminate against HIV genotypes. The test also includes an Internal Control (IC) for monitoring test performance in each individual test.

The Atila HIV Assay is performed in three main steps, specimen processing and nucleic acid extraction; reverse transcription and digital PCR amplification; and data analysis and quantification. Specimen processing and nucleic acid extraction is performed with the Atila automated DNA/RNA extraction system, other compatible automated systems, or manual viral RNA extraction kits.