A range of assay methods are used to detect viral contaminants in the raw materials and final finished products. It is obvious that a single viral assay cannot detect the entire viral types present in the sample. So how can we actually determine the viral contaminants. The strategy developed is simple. It mainly focuses on the possible viral contaminant of the source material being used. Also it does not include newly discovered or unknown viral contaminants. Current viral assays falls into 3 categories. 1. Immunoassays 2. Assays based on viral DNA probes 3. Bioassays IMMUNOASSAYS: In this 1. A sample of live or attenuated virus is injected into animal. 2. Production of polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies takes place 3. These harvested antibodies are used to develop immunoassays to check routinely for the presence of that specific virus. Notable features of this technique include its ease, inexpensiveness, speed. An alternative technique is to carry out the assay for the detection of VIRAL DNA in the sample. This technique is similar to dot blot assays. VIRAL BIOASSAYS is another technique. Many approaches are being developed. One strategy is incubating the virus with the cell lines for specific period and later on examining the cytopathic effects or any sign of possible viral infections. Viral bioassays are carried on a range of animals- Mouse, Rabbit etc. Characteristic feature of this technique is that it is extremely sensitive and a minute sample of virus can elicit immune response. Ref: Pharmaceutical Biotechnology - Concepts and Applications by Gary Walsh, 2007 edition, Wiley Publications, Page no 198. THIS BLOG IS FREE OF PLAGIARISM. THE FORTNIGHT TIP The conclusion is petty this time. We, the pharmacists can shine anywhere provided you strive for the title as lead actor in an industry or academic section. The thrust for learning should never end. Just remember WE ARE THE BEST!! Hearty congratulations to all the participants and my wishes and blessings to all my student friends. GOOD LUCK!! and THANK YOU VERY MUCH for allowing me to reach you all at this point of competition.