ABSTRACT
Determination of the viral and host factors affecting progression to AIDS is essential for the elucidation of the natural history and pathogenic mechanisms of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Simian immunodeficiency virus (SlV)-infected non-human primates provide important model systems in which to investigate the virus-host interaction. SIV infection of susceptible species, such as rhesus macaques, causes AIDS. In order to fully study the virologic aspects of SIV disease, the authors have developed and applied quantitative methods to monitor viral load in SIV infection of macaques, sooty mangabeys, and African green monkeys. This chapter describes the detailed methodology necessary to perform these assays. SIV plasma viremia is measured by a quantitative-competitive RNA polymerase chain reaction assay adapted from that described by Piatek et al. to measure HIV-1 RNA and DNA levels. This method allows accurate quantitation of viral load in SIV infections.
