Alveo Technologies Inc. located in Alameda, CA. has adapted Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Technology (LAMP) to detect H5, H7 and H9 avian influenza subtypes from oropharyngeal and cloacal samples*.  The Alveo Flockscreen LAMP assay applies direct electrical sensing of nucleic acid amplification to detect pathogens. The system is designed for field deployment with claimed high sensitivity and specificity. 

Currently lateral flow immunoassay in conjunction with flock records and clinical assessment is used to derive a provisional diagnosis to implement an immediate quarantine and to plan for depopulation.  Confirmation is by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is conducted in an accredited laboratory.  Given experience gained in the U.S., Europe and Latin America, PCR confirmation can usually be obtained within 24 hours using a network of laboratories serving poultry industries in developed nations.  The Alveo Flockscreen LAMP offers the combination of sensitivity and specificity obtained with PCR but with the immediacy of lateral flow assay.

The question arises as whether this technology is necessary at this time. We have a provisional quick on-farm screen and turnaround from state labs is within 24 hours. In any event APHIS will only recognize PCR results from an accredited laboratory with subsequent confirmation and WGS by the NVSL.

*Tumpey, TM et al Diagnostic approach for differentiating infected from vaccinated poultry on the basis of antibodies to NS1, the nonstructural protein of influenza A virus. J Clin Microbiol. 45: 676-683 (2005) (In press)