A Multiplexed Assay for the Detection of Pathogens of Military Importance in Sand Flies

VecTOR Test Systems, Inc. proposes to develop and produce the Leishmania/SFFV antigen panel assay, a field usable assay for detection and differentiation of Leishmania parasites as well as Sand fly fever viruses (SFFVs) in sand fly vectors. The proposed assays will be performed in a rapid, one-step immuno-chromatographic process for detection of various Leishmania sp such as L. major, L. tropica, L donovani, as well as SFFVs in infected sand-flies. The technology is based on the simple and reliable wicking immuno-chromatographic detection method by which sensitive test-strip based assays provide results in less than 30 minutes. The proposed dipstick assays will be stable at ambient storage conditions. During Phase I, prototype multiplexed assay tests were developed and evaluated. Results of these evaluations have successfully demonstrated the differentiation of the Leishmania sp. from sand fly pathogens such as SFFVs. Assays developed in similar format for other arthropod vectors e.g. the mosquito vector for detection of Malaria circumsporozoite proteins, WNV, SLE, EEE, and WEE and have found commercial application. The development of easy to use tests will be important for detection of pathogens of military importance and will be useful in the commercial sector for vector surveillance and control programs.