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Updated: Jun 22, 2026
08:56
Combining Analysis of DNA in a Crude Virion Extraction with the Analysis of RNA from Infected Leaves to Discover New Virus Genomes
Published on: July 27, 2018
Sequencing of viral genes
Carol Holm-Hansen1, Kirsti Vainio
1Division of Infectious Disease Control, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|June 13, 2009
Summary
Molecular sequencing revolutionizes viral epidemiology, enhancing understanding of viral transmission and outbreaks. This enables timely implementation of effective preventive measures for disease surveillance and control.
Area of Science:
- Molecular epidemiology
- Virology
- Public health
Background:
- Understanding viral transmission and diversity is crucial for effective outbreak management.
- Traditional methods for viral classification and phylogenetic analysis presented significant challenges.
- Molecular techniques offer advanced tools for studying viruses at a molecular level.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical role of molecular techniques, specifically sequence analysis, in epidemiological investigations.
- To explain how molecular data aids in understanding viral transmission, diversity, and outbreak characterization.
- To emphasize the impact of automated sequencing on advancing viral epidemiology.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing automated cycle sequencing with fluorescently labeled nucleotides.
- Analyzing viral gene sequences to identify and characterize viruses.
- Applying sequence data analysis to epidemiological investigations.
Main Results:
- Molecular techniques provide a deeper understanding of viral transmission patterns and diversity.
- Automated sequencing has significantly improved the ability to study viruses at the molecular level.
- Sequence data is essential for investigating viral etiology, dissemination, transmission, surveillance, and prevention.
Conclusions:
- Sequence analysis is indispensable for modern viral epidemiology.
- Molecular insights facilitate timely and appropriate public health interventions during outbreaks.
- The chapter underscores the transformative impact of sequencing technologies on understanding and controlling viral diseases.
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