Development of a Multiplex HIV/TB Diagnostic Assay Based on the Microarray Technology.

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Immunology
• Diagnostics

Background:

• Separate diagnostic tests for HIV and TB can delay treatment for co-infections.
• Multiplex platforms are needed for simultaneous detection of infectious disease markers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a multiplex microarray for detecting antibodies to HIV and TB.
• To assess the sensitivity, specificity, and stability of the developed diagnostic technology.

Main Methods:

• Immobilization of HIV (p24) and TB (CFP10, ESAT6, pstS1) antigens on epoxy-silane slides.
• Detection of specific antibodies in human sera using fluorescently labeled secondary antibodies.
• Comparison of microarray sensitivity against traditional high-binding plates.

Main Results:

• The multiplex microarray successfully detected HIV and TB antibodies without cross-reactivity.
• The microarray demonstrated significantly higher sensitivity (detection limit 0.000954 µg/mL) compared to plates (4.637 µg/mL).
• Immobilized antigens remained stable for at least 90 days under dry storage and across various pH and temperature conditions.

Conclusions:

• The developed multiplex microarray technology shows promise for diagnosing HIV and TB co-infections.
• This technology could streamline diagnosis and facilitate timely treatment for patients with dual infections.