Development of flow cytometry-based Zika virus detection assay

Standard assays based on ELISA and RT-PCR have been widely used to detect flaviviral infections, including the Zika virus (Zika). Despite their simple, unique, and sensitive features, RT-PCR and ELISA-based assays cannot meet the requirements of high-throughput screening of bulk samples during an outbreak. Several research groups around the world are working on the development of rapid, multiplex, and sensitive assays to overcome the limitations of standard assays used in viral detection. Recent advances in flow cytometry have led to remarkable progress in its use as a basic analysis tool in laboratories. Here, we used the advantages of flow cytometry to develop a Zika detection assay using recombinant Zika envelope (E) protein. The E protein-based flow cytometry assay was able to detect anti-Zika E antibodies from Zika-infected patients, Zika-infected mice, and mice immunized with recombinant Zika E protein. We report the development of the first flow cytometry-based diagnostic assay that can be used for Zika detection. Its rapid turnaround time and ability to detect antibodies from Zika-infected patients can be used to improve the diagnostic accuracy of Zika detection. Keywords: Flavivirus; Zika virus; E protein; NS-1 protein; flow cytometry; ELISA; RT-PCR.