Rnase P(IC)
Understanding Rnase P(IC)
What is Rnase P(IC)?
The Rnase P(IC) test is a molecular diagnostic assay used to detect the presence of RNAse P, an enzyme present in human cells, in respiratory samples. It serves as a control to ensure the accuracy of nucleic acid amplification tests ( NAATs) for detecting respiratory pathogens such as viruses.
During molecular testing for respiratory pathogens, including viruses such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2 (the virus responsible for COVID-19), the Rnase P(IC) test serves as a quality control measure. By detecting the presence of RNase P in the sample, doctors can verify the integrity of the sample and ensure that the NAAT accurately amplifies and detects the target viral RNA.
In addition to validating test accuracy, Rnase P(IC) test provides confidence in the reliability of test results, helping to minimize false negative or false-positive results. This ensures that the infected individuals receive timely and appropriate medical care based on accurate and reliable diagnostic information.
Overall, Rnase P(IC) test plays an important role in molecular diagnostics for respiratory pathogens, contributing to the accuracy and reliability of test results and ultimately supporting effective patient management to control infectious diseases.
What is Rnase P(IC) used for?
The Rnase P(IC) test is done:
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To serve as a quality control measure to ensure the accuracy and reliability of NAATs used to detect respiratory pathogens.
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To verify the integrity of the respiratory sample and the effectiveness of NAAT in amplifying and detecting the target viral RNA
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To help minimize the risk of false-negative or false-positive results in the diagnostic test
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To help ensure accuracy of the test results
What does Rnase P(IC) measure?
The RNase P gene is used in the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) protocol as an internal control (IC) for the detection of COVID-19, since this is a multi-copy gene that is abundant in the human genome, and therefore is easily detectable. Ribonuclease P (RNase P) is an endoribonuclease that cleaves other RNA molecules at the junction between a single-stranded region and the 5′ end of a double-stranded region. The enzyme is one of only two ribozymes that can be found in all kingdoms of life (Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya).
References
- Innings A, Ullberg M, Johansson A, Rubin CJ, Noreus N, Isaksson M, Herrmann B. Multiplex real-time PCR targeting the RNase P RNA gene for detection and identification of Candida species in blood. J Clin Microbiol. 2007 Mar;45(3):874-80. [Accessed 26 Apr. 2024]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1829127/
- Pasqualotto AC, Seus AL. COVID-19 PCR: frequency of internal control inhibition in clinical practice. Access Microbiol. 2023 May 19;5(5):acmi000478.v3. [Accessed 26 Apr. 2024]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10267656/
- Plehn-Dujowich D, Altman S. Effective inhibition of influenza virus production in cultured cells by external guide sequences and ribonuclease P. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1998 Jun 23;95(13):7327-32. [Accessed 26 Apr. 2024]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC22606/
- Ieven M. Currently used nucleic acid amplification tests for the detection of viruses and atypicals in acute respiratory infections. J Clin Virol. 2007 Dec;40(4):259-76. [Accessed 26 Apr. 2024]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7108459/
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