[RT-PCR: a tool for the generation of clones for research on canine distemper]

In the present work an adapted method of the reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is described. This procedure was an important tool for cloning a variety of gene sequences derived from oligodendrocytes and canine distemper virus (CDV). Among other applications, the obtained clones were used to produce probes for in situ hybridization and to sequence the inserted DNAs. Due to these molecularbiological techniques new insights were gained into the pathogenesis of CDV-induced demyelination and CDV-persistence in the central nervous system.