Arbovirus Diagnostic Kit Using Segmented NS1 and Envelope Antigens
Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic methods for arbovirus infections, such as dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya, face challenges due to high cross-reactivity among similar viruses and the complexity of symptoms, making differential diagnosis difficult, especially in cases of multiple infections or after vaccinations.
Innovation Solution
An immunological diagnostic method using specific antigens like NS1 and envelope proteins of dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya viruses, applied to a solid phase, allows for differential diagnosis by employing recombinantly prepared protein fragments and peptides to distinguish between closely related flaviviruses through IgM and IgG antibody detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional diagnostic methods using NS5 or NS1 proteins are used, then viral detection is possible, but cross-reactivity between different flaviviruses occurs reducing diagnostic accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the diagnostic approach by using multiple different antigens (NS1, NS5, envelope proteins) from different viral proteins simultaneously. Each antigen targets specific viral components, and by segmenting the detection into multiple antigen-specific reactions, the method can distinguish between cross-reactivity patterns of different flaviviruses, thereby improving diagnostic accuracy while managing cross-reactivity issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a dimensional aspect to diagnosis by simultaneously detecting multiple antigen types (structural and non-structural proteins) that respond at different rates and to different degrees. This multi-dimensional antigen detection approach allows differentiation of viruses based on their unique antigen response profiles, resolving cross-reactivity problems by viewing the problem in multiple diagnostic dimensions simultaneously.
2Measurement precision
If multiple antigens are used for differential diagnosis, then virus differentiation capability improves, but test complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal diagnostic platform that simultaneously performs multiple functions: detecting different flaviviruses (dengue, Zika, yellow fever, West Nile), differentiating between them, and providing differential diagnosis all in a single test system. By making the test kit multi-functional with multiple antigens targeting different viral proteins, it achieves high differentiation capability while consolidating what would otherwise require multiple separate tests into one unified system.
3Reliability
If structural and non-structural proteins are detected simultaneously, then diagnostic reliability improves, but time required for complete analysis increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting structural proteins (envelope proteins) that typically elicit stronger and earlier antibody responses alongside non-structural proteins (NS1, NS5). By including antigens that respond at different time points and with different intensities from the outset, the test provides comprehensive diagnostic information in a single simultaneous analysis, eliminating the need for sequential testing and reducing total analysis time while maintaining high reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method provides clear, measurable reactions that enable reliable differentiation between arbovirus infections, even in cases of multiple infections, by utilizing specific antigen reactivities and IgG/IgM titers, reducing cross-reactivity issues and improving diagnostic accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
the sample is brought into contact with a plurality of antigens, which were applied to a solid phase, spatially separated from one another
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for the immunological diagnosis of a sample from a patient with a potential infection with an arbovirus, whereina) a sample is brought into contact with a plurality of antigens that, separated from each other, are applied to a solid phase, wherein at least the following antigens are used:aa) the “non-structural protein 1” of a first arbovirus or an immunologically reactive part thereof having at least 8 amino acids,bb) an “envelope protein” of a first arbovirus or an immunologically reactive part thereof having at least 8 amino acids,cc) an “envelope protein” of a second arbovirus or an immunologically reactive part thereof having at least 8 amino acids,dd) the “non-structural protein 1” of a third arbovirus or an immunologically reactive part thereof having at least 8 amino acids andee) an “envelope protein” of a third arbovirus or an immunologically reactive part thereof having at least 8 amino acids,b) the solid phase is washed to separate non-specific bindings,c) the immune complex formed on the solid phase is converted into a signal andd) the test method is evaluated by comparing the relative signal strengths.