Lower limit of detection for DNA extraction and QA-PCR amplification was determined using blood products spiked with EBV containing Namalva cell line.

Namalva cell line containing 2 copies per cell of EBV was spiked into RBC and platelets to known concentrations. Spiked RBC and platelets (50 mL) were extracted using silica protocol followed by QA-PCR. The plot shows recovered copies (observed) versus expected copies for 2 RBC (■ ⋄) and 2 platelet experiments (▵ ▿). Signal was not detectable above a background of 200 GE, thus the limit of detection is 4 GE/mL.