They first used a nuclear-derived technique called polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology to identify the genome of the virus. This technology allows for the identification of viruses � including Ebola � within a few hours and with a high degree of accuracy.

The team then submitted specially prepared samples to a laboratory in Germany, a subcontracting genetic sequencing service that the IAEA provides to its Member States. The DR Congo laboratory then had to interpret the sequencing results received from the German lab. It was thanks to the training he received that Tshilenge Mbuyi could interpret the sequence data, characterize the virus as H5N8 and find out crucial information such as the origin of the strain and the way the disease was developing.

Once the scientists confirmed the presence and strain of the virus, authorities immediately applied a series of sanitary measures to control the outbreak, including culling all domesticated and wild birds along the lake. Veterinarians are now beginning to take samples from villages in the wider region to ensure the virus has not spread, Tshilenge Mbuyi said.

The same virus strain has also been detected in Uganda, Cameroon, Zimbabwe and South Africa, and experts are concerned that it may spread further in the region. They’re wild birds that migrate with the change of seasons, so they can carry the virus across long distances, said Ivancho Nateloski, technical officer at the Joint FAO/IAEA Division of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture.

The IAEA, through its technical cooperation programme, and in partnership with the FAO, has been supporting veterinary authorities in DR Congo since the early 1990s with training courses, scientific visits, expert visits and through the provision of relevant equipment, materials and guidance for the early diagnoses and control of transboundary animal and zoonotic diseases.

THE SCIENCE

PCR

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a highly sensitive and accurate technique that is well-suited for identifying virus strains and bacteria. This technique uses an enzyme to replicate, or amplify, a specific genetic region of a pathogen’s DNA billion-fold in just half an hour. Scientists then detect and monitor this DNA amplification through either radioisotopes or by counting fluorescent molecules attached specifically to the created gene sequences.

Genetic sequencing

Sequencing is a nuclear-derived technique that analyses the way the nucleic acid (RNA and DNA) information inside pathogens is arranged. Genetic sequencing describes the composition of the genetic material, helping scientists predict the function of the gene analysed, its impact and the behaviour of the pathogen. This not only helps diagnose a disease, but can also disclose its origin and evolution and potential dangers.

Such nuclear-based tools and techniques are frequently used for detecting acute illnesses and diseases such as Ebola or foot-and-mouth disease.

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency