Ultrasound monitored HIV rapid test

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The long-term goal of the proposed research is to develop a novel quantitative particle agglutination technology for improving the performance of detection of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) antibody in body fluids. The conventional particle agglutination assays have serious drawbacks such as limited sensitivity, long time of incubation, subjectivity and large amount of reagents. It is in this context that we propose to develop a new technology, which is free from the aforementioned limitations of the conventional particle agglutination assays. The proposed immunoassay is a sensitive and rapid method that utilizes inexpensive instrumentation. Significantly, the method presents a general approach for enhancement and detection of agglutination of particles of different origin, including latex, silica microparticles, and biological cells. The development of this method will allow one to obtain quantitative results, increase the sensitivity of particle agglutination assays for detection of anti-HIV antibodies, and reduce time of analysis without compromising the cost per test. Successful completion of these studies will make available all of the technology needed for a substantial business opportunity to license the technology and manufacture commercial products.