Virtual virology laboratory suite
Immersive virology training: viral culture, electron microscopy, NGS sequencing, biosafety, COVID surveillance and hepatitis monitoring on a high-fidelity virtual bench.
Virtual Virology Laboratory Suite is available to premium subscribers and trial users.
Advanced virology science LIMS
Next-generation laboratory information management for virology testing, molecular diagnostics, serology validation and cross-departmental correlation.
Advanced Virology Science LIMS is available to premium subscribers and trial users.
Molecular techniques
Interactive tools for molecular diagnostic techniques including PCR, sequencing and genotyping.
PCR Techniques
- • Real-Time PCR (qPCR): Quantitative viral load; limits of detection are assay specific, and HBV DNA and HCV RNA are reported in IU/mL
- • RT-PCR: RNA virus detection with a reverse transcription step
- • Multiplex PCR: Multiple target detection; sensitivity for each target must be verified in the multiplex format
- • Digital PCR (dPCR): Absolute quantification without standard curves
Sequencing Methods
- • Sanger sequencing: Targeted viral regions
- • Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS): Whole viral genomes; required coverage depth depends on the application
- • Metagenomic approaches: Novel virus detection
- • Phylogenetic analysis: Outbreak investigations
Genotyping & Resistance Testing
- • HIV drug resistance testing
- • HCV genotyping for treatment selection
- • Influenza antiviral resistance screening
- • SARS-CoV-2 variant surveillance and characterisation
Innovative Technologies
- • CRISPR-based diagnostics: SHERLOCK/DETECTR
- • Nanopore sequencing: Rapid field testing (real-time analysis, portable)
- • Digital microfluidics: Point-of-care testing
- • Machine learning: Variant calling, resistance prediction, outbreak tracking
Sample Processing & Quality
- • Automated extraction: 96-well platforms
- • Internal controls: PCR inhibition monitoring (an internal control Ct shift beyond the laboratory's validated limit indicates inhibition)
- • Contamination prevention: UNG treatment, separate workstations, one-way workflow
- • Quantification standards: WHO International Standards (metrological traceability)
PCR guide
Comprehensive guide to PCR techniques: real-time PCR, RT-PCR and digital PCR methods used in NHS virology.
Real-Time PCR
- • Detects amplification as it occurs using fluorescence
- • Higher sensitivity and specificity than conventional PCR
- • Allows for quantification of viral load
- • Common for HIV, HCV, and HBV viral load testing
RT-PCR
- • Reverse transcription followed by PCR
- • Used for RNA viruses (HIV, SARS-CoV-2, influenza)
- • Converts RNA to cDNA before amplification
- • Critical for respiratory virus diagnostics
Multiplex PCR
- • Detects multiple pathogens in a single reaction
- • Useful for respiratory and gastrointestinal panels
- • Saves time and specimen material
- • Requires careful primer design to avoid interference
Digital PCR
- • Partitions sample into thousands of individual reactions
- • Absolute quantification without standard curve
- • Higher precision for low viral loads
- • Used for residual viraemia detection in HIV and HBV
Virology data visualisation
Interactive charts and graphs showcasing key virological parameters and diagnostic patterns.
Simulated. Every figure on this page is generated for teaching: the prevalence split, the resistance trends and the assay performance table. None of it is surveillance data and none of it should be quoted as a national figure. Any confidence, accuracy or performance figure shown below is part of the simulation, not a measurement from a laboratory or a validated model.
Virology quick guide
Essential knowledge areas for virology, from foundational concepts to specialised techniques.
Clinical Virology for Senior BMS
Clinical virology is a specialised branch of microbiology focusing on the detection, diagnosis, and monitoring of viral infections. Senior Biomedical Scientists play a crucial role in leading complex viral diagnostic testing and implementing advanced molecular techniques. Current UK practice incorporates UKHSA's ongoing metagenomic surveillance (mSCAPE) and enhanced respiratory virus genomic surveillance programs supporting national pathogen surveillance.
Core Responsibilities
- Development and validation of viral diagnostic assays
- Interpretation of complex molecular testing results
- Quality assurance and method verification
- Outbreak investigation support
- Surveillance program management
Advanced Testing Methods
- Next-generation sequencing (NGS)
- Digital PCR and multiplex PCR
- Viral load quantification
- Antiviral resistance testing
- Whole genome viral sequencing
Sources and guidance
This hub's content aligns with the UK's professional and regulatory references for the specialty: