Roundworm Antigen Detection via Antibody Binding Specificity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for diagnosing roundworm infections in mammals are time-consuming, require specialized equipment, and have low specificity, making it difficult to accurately identify roundworms specifically, which is crucial for effective treatment and preventing zoonotic transmission to humans.
Innovation Solution
Development of antibodies that specifically bind to roundworm antigens, allowing for the use of devices and kits that can detect roundworm antigens in samples like feces, whole blood, or serum, distinguishing them from hookworm and heartworm antigens, and enabling early detection before ova appear in feces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If microscopic examination methods are used for diagnosing roundworm infections, then the method is widely adopted and can detect helminth infections, but the method has low specificity and cannot accurately identify roundworm specifically
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces roundworm-specific antigens as intermediaries between the diagnostic test and the target pathogen. These antigens serve as mediators that enable specific detection of roundworm infections through immunological reactions, allowing differentiation from other helminth infections that microscopic methods cannot distinguish.
2Productivity
If microscopic examination methods are used, then helminth infections can be detected, but the method is time-consuming and requires specialized equipment and skilled operators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical microscopic examination system with an immunological detection system. Instead of using microscopes, density media, and manual manipulation of fecal samples, the invention uses antibody-antigen reactions that can be performed with simpler equipment and provide faster results.
3Ease of operation
If fecal sample processing is performed using conventional methods, then helminth eggs can be detected, but the procedure is complex and requires multiple steps including weighing, centrifuging and storing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-coating solid supports with roundworm-specific antibodies before sample application. This preparation step is performed in advance, allowing rapid detection when the actual sample is applied, eliminating the need for time-consuming processing steps during the diagnostic procedure.
4Adaptability or versatility
If immunoassay methods are used for detection, then the procedure becomes simpler, but there remains a need for specific immunoassay methods for parasitic worm infections, particularly roundworm
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using roundworm-specific antigens in specific regions or contexts of the diagnostic test. The immunological assay is tailored with specific antibodies and antigens that are locally optimized for roundworm detection, providing both simplicity and high specificity for this particular parasitic infection.
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
The solution provides a reliable, easy-to-use method for consistently detecting roundworm infections, allowing for optimal treatment selection and reducing the risk of zoonotic transmission by distinguishing between roundworm and other helminth infections.
Implementation Method 1
Development of antibodies that specifically bind to roundworm antigens, allowing for the use of devices and kits that can detect roundworm antigens in samples like feces, whole blood, or serum, distinguishing them from hookworm and heartworm antigens
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices, kits and compositions for detecting the presence or absence of roundworm in a fecal sample are disclosed herein. The methods, devices, kits and compositions of the present invention may be used to confirm the presence or absence of roundworm in a fecal sample from a mammal that may also be infected with one or more of hookworm, whipworm, and heartworm. Confirmation of the presence or absence of roundworm in the mammal may be made, for example, for the purpose of selecting an optimal course of treating the mammal and/or for the purpose of determining whether the mammal has been rid of the infection after treatment has been initiated.