Detection of Arthropod-Borne Pathogens by Rapid Panel Assays in Mosquitoes

Navix, Inc. proposes to develop a rapid, one-step immuno-chromatographic assay for identification of malaria and dengue-infested mosquitoes. This assay will be based on the existing know-how at Navix by which sensitive test-strip based panel assays provide results in less than 15 minutes and are stable at ambient storage conditions. The present proposal aims at preparing and evaluating a panel assay developed from dengue- and malaria-specific polyclonal/monoclonal antibodies. Phase I will involve (1) Selection of the most appropriate antibodies for incorporation into the malaria and dengue assay that meet the required criteria; (2) Development of a prototype dengue assay with the required sensitivity; (3) Development of a malaria assay with the required sensitivity; and (4) Production of about 1000 assays of each kind for laboratory/field evaluation. Successful completion of these tasks can result in the development of panel assays that could indicate precise causative agents during a single use. Timely identification of arthropod-borne disease threat will benefit both the Department of Defense (DOD) and the various civilian health agencies throughout the world. Since the present technology furnishes an assay system that can be stored ambiently, it can be transported and used without any loss in performance for over 12 months. The proposed assay system is simple to use and interpret, and developed to be effective in adverse environments.