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Updated: Jan 16, 2026
Quantification and Whole Genome Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in Wastewater and Air Samples
Published on: June 30, 2023
Comparative analysis of RT-qPCR assay sensitivity and process limit of detection for Japanese encephalitis virus
Angela Freddi1, Metasebia Gebrewold2, Wendy J M Smith2
1CSIRO Environment, Ecosciences Precinct, 41 Boggo Road, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia; Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino, Urbino 61029, Italy; Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnologies - CNR IRBIM, Ancona 60125, Italy.
Abstract:
Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) poses a significant public health threat in Asia, the Western Pacific, and Australia, necessitating robust surveillance and management strategies. This study evaluates three RT-qPCR assays (Universal JEV, ACDP JEV G4, and VIDRL2 JEV G4) for detecting JEV in piggery wastewater, a promising approach for early outbreak detection. We assessed assay limit of detection (ALOD), process limit of detection (PLOD), and recovery efficiency using gamma-irradiated JEV seeded into wastewater samples, alongside field-derived samples from an Australian piggery. The ACDP JEV G4 assay demonstrated superior sensitivity, with an ALOD of 2.20-5.70 copies/reaction and PLOD of 72-282 copies/10 mL of piggery wastewater, detecting JEV in 23/30 field samples compared to 17/30 for Universal JEV and 0/30 for VIDRL2 JEV G4 assays. Recovery efficiencies varied, with ACDP JEV G4 showing consistent performance (14.9-26.6 %) across concentrations. McNemar's test confirmed ACDP JEV G4's higher sensitivity (p < 0.05). Based on the results obtained in this study, the ACDP JEV G4 assay is recommended for wastewater surveillance in genotype 4 regions, with a dual-assay approach suggested for broader genotype coverage. These findings enhance JEV surveillance strategies, supporting early detection and control.
