SBIR-STTR Award

The objective of this proposal is to develop point-of-care rapid test assay for the diagnosis of Q-fever. Selected surface membrane protein antigens from Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q-fever will be prepared using TransMembrane Biosciences’ powerful membrane protein mass production technologies. This methodology allows correctly folded and functional membrane proteins to be synthesized in large quantities. The purified recombinant antigens will be used to raise polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies quickly. The recombinant antigens and the corresponding antibodies will then be used for the preparation of nanoparticle conjugates. Subsequently, our industry partner, Pan Probe Biotech and Princeton BioMeditech will utilize these materials to construct point of care rapid test prototype(s) for the detection of C. burnetii or C. burnetii-specific IgM antibodies in blood samples of patients.

Keywords:
Q Fever, Coxiella, Point-Of-Care Rapid Test

The objective of this proposal is to develop a highly sensitive point-of-care rapid test assay for the diagnosis of Q-fever. Selected highly immunogenic and unique surface-membrane proteins from Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent for Q-fever will be the basis for the rapid test assay. We will utilize the antigens and antibodies prepared during Phase I to create an improved version of the diagnostic assay capable of detecting Coxiella analyte(s) in the range of pg/ml. Venues to improve the sensitivity and specificity of the assay will be pursued. We envision creating a POC rapid test kit capable of detecting Coxiella-specific antibodies and/or Coxiella-specific antigen in infected subjects'' serum and whole blood.

Keywords:
Q-Fever, Point Of Care, Rapid Test, Coxiella