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Multiplexed Isothermal Amplification Based Diagnostic Platform to Detect Zika, Chikungunya, and Dengue 1
Published on: March 13, 2018
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Zika virus and diagnostics
1Biomedical Research Institute of Southern California (BRISC), Oceanside, California, USA.
Current Opinion in Pediatrics
|November 22, 2016
Summary
Zika virus (ZIKV) research reveals its relation to other flaviviruses and genetic variation. Current diagnostic methods are limited, highlighting the need for simpler, more accurate tests to distinguish ZIKV from similar arboviruses.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Genetics
- Immunology
- Diagnostic Assay Development
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV) shares antigenic properties with other flaviviruses, as evidenced by structural studies.
- Genetic sequencing reveals ZIKV's dynamic variation, with Western isolates aligning within the Asian phylogenetic tree.
- Conserved enzymatic functions, despite prevalent genetic mutations, offer potential therapeutic targets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on Zika virus (ZIKV).
- To discuss ZIKV's structure, phylogeny, and diagnostic limitations.
- To highlight the need for improved diagnostic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy for structural analysis.
- Viral sequencing for phylogenetic and genetic variation studies.
- Review of existing diagnostic techniques and their limitations.
Main Results:
- ZIKV's antigenic relatedness to flaviviruses is confirmed.
- Genetic analysis shows significant variation but conserved protein functions.
- Current diagnostic tests are complex, costly, and require specialized personnel.
- Existing commercial tests lack thorough validation compared to standardized methods.
Conclusions:
- Simpler, more discriminating diagnostic assays for ZIKV are urgently needed.
- Advancements in diagnostic assay development are expected due to intense research interest.
- Improved diagnostics are anticipated to contribute to ZIKV prevention and treatment strategies.
