Paper functionalization for detection of Plasmodium falciparum DNA using square waves voltammetry

Area of Science:

• Medical Diagnostics
• Molecular Biology
• Parasitology

Background:

• Malaria elimination is a global health priority, but progress has stalled due to undetected asymptomatic carriers.
• Current diagnostic methods fail to detect low-level Plasmodium infections, hindering transmission control.
• Point-of-care molecular diagnostics are needed for low-income, malaria-endemic areas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simplified, point-of-care molecular diagnostic tool for detecting low parasitemia.
• To adapt DNA detection methods for use with paper-based materials and portable devices.
• To enable sensitive detection of Plasmodium parasites for improved malaria surveillance.

Main Methods:

• Functionalization of paper-based material for enhanced DNA interaction.
• Integration of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) with square wave voltammetry (SWV).
• Development of a novel detection system using methylene blue on chemically treated paper.

Main Results:

• Achieved 100% sensitivity and specificity in detecting Plasmodium parasites.
• Established a limit-of-detection of 0.1 parasite/μL, equivalent to 0.000002% parasitemia.
• Demonstrated proof-of-concept for qualitative detection of very low parasitemia in patient samples.

Conclusions:

• The developed paper-based SWV method offers a sensitive and specific tool for malaria diagnosis.
• This technology has the potential for widespread application in resource-limited settings for malaria elimination.
• Simplified molecular diagnostics are critical for identifying asymptomatic carriers and interrupting malaria transmission.