Torque teno virus: an improved indicator for viral pathogens in drinking waters
2008
Torque Teno Virus as a Better Indicator for Waterborne Viruses
publication
Author Information
Author(s): Jennifer S. Griffin, Jeanine D. Plummer, Sharon C. Long
Primary Institution: Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Hypothesis
Torque teno virus is a more appropriate indicator of viral pathogens in drinking waters than currently used indicator systems based solely on bacteria.
Conclusion
If validated, Torque teno virus could serve as a reliable indicator for assessing viral risks in drinking water.
Supporting Evidence
- Torque teno virus is found in a large proportion of healthy individuals and does not exhibit seasonal fluctuations.
- Current bacterial indicators like coliforms do not always correlate with the presence of enteric viruses in water.
- Torque teno virus has been detected in various environmental waters, suggesting its potential as an indicator.
Takeaway
This study suggests that a virus called Torque teno virus might be a better way to check if drinking water is safe than the usual bacteria tests.
Methodology
The study proposes a multi-phased research approach including developing a reliable assay for Torque teno virus and monitoring its presence in various water sources.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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