251 - Validation of an internal tick RNA control for use in viral detection assays on the Rocky Mountain wood tick (Dermacentor andersoni)

Abstract: The utilization of internal controls (ICs) in viral RNA detection assays is considered best practice because they can differentiate between true negative results and unsuccessful extraction events or RNA degradation within individual samples. However, due to various limitations, ICs are often missing from pathogen detection workflows. Teton County Weed & Pest conducts vector surveillance and pathogen detection in both tick and mosquito vectors. While our existing, commercially available mosquito West Nile Virus assay includes an internal positive control, one does not currently exist for our in-house Colorado Tick Fever Virus assay. TCWP seeks to validate a genus- or species-specific internal tick RNA control that can be multiplexed or used across multiple viral targets when testing Rocky Mountain wood ticks (Dermacentor andersoni). Challenges and successes of the validation process will be discussed.