Abstract
Zika virus, a mosquito-borne
pathogen, has been linked to occurrences of microcephaly when the virus is
passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Currently, enzyme-linked
immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)
are two major laboratory methods available for detecting Zika virus (ZIKV).
These methods can be used to detect the virus, for example, within 3-10 days following
the onset of symptoms. However, the ELISA test adopted for detecting Zika virus
has limitations due to cross reactivity of the antibodies with other species of
the Flavivirus genus such as, for example, dengue virus. In addition, ELISA is
cumbersome for healthcare workers to carry and utilize. Because these methods
are typically carried out in laboratories only, the turn-around time for
confirmed laboratory diagnostics results can take up to days, causing
significant delays in diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, these test methods
are unable to detect Zika virus at low detection limits, which can result in
misidentification of the viral infection at an early stage.FIU inventors have developed
methods for the detection of zika virus at low level with micro-electrochemical
ZIKV immunosensors functionalized with Zika virus binding ligands such as
monoclonal Zika virus antibodies and Zika non-structural proteins. These
methods include contacting the immunosensing substrate with a biological
sample, applying a frequency to the sensing device, monitoring changes in
resistance response of the sensing device as Zika virus or Zika virus-infected
cells bind with their binding ligands; and finally, quantifying the amount of
ZIKV by comparing the measured resistance response with a pre-determined
calibration curve. These methods allow for a rapid (operation time around 40
minutes) and selective detection of ZIKV in wide concentration range with a low
detection limit (10 pM).
Benefit
Suitable for use in clinical and field settings Enable early diagnosis of zika virus infection Allow for a sensitive, and selective detection of zika virus within 40 minutes Determine treatment effectiveness
Market Application
Diagnostic screening for zika virus infection at early stage Assessment of diseases progression and therapy efficacy
Brochure
