[Novel PCR methods for detection of HIV proviruses using digoxigenin labelled probes--filter paper method]

We have reported novel methods for screening of HIV by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and digoxigenin labelled probes. Here we developed a filter paper method for samples from long distances. About 50 microliters of peripheral bloods were absorbed in filters (5 mm diameter), dried, heated, then stored for 1 month at room temperature before PCR. This method was proved to be sufficient for detection of HIV proviruses from clinical samples.