What kind of testing related to equine herpesvirus involves molecular techniques?

Molecular techniques, particularly PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing, are specifically designed to detect the genetic material of pathogens such as equine herpesvirus. PCR testing amplifies specific DNA sequences of the virus, allowing for highly sensitive and specific identification of the virus even at low levels. This method is advantageous because it can provide results relatively quickly and helps diagnose active infections by confirming the presence of viral DNA.

In contrast, the other testing methods listed do not primarily utilize molecular techniques. Immunofluorescence and ELISA antibody tests are serological methods focused on detecting antibodies or antigens, while serum neutralization assesses the virus’s ability to infect cells in the presence of serum from an infected horse. These methods are vital for understanding immune responses or assessing viral activity, but they do not directly identify viral genetic material as PCR does. Thus, PCR testing stands out as the appropriate method for employing molecular techniques in the context of equine herpesvirus testing.