Fluorescence Polarization Assay for Infection Diagnostics: A Review

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Diagnostics
• Immunology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Infectious diseases necessitate rapid and specific diagnostic methods for effective treatment and prevention.
• The immune system's response to pathogens like bacteria and viruses involves antibody production, detectable in blood.
• Fluorescence polarization assay (FPA) has emerged as a key technique for swift and precise antibody detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the advancements and applications of Fluorescence Polarization Assay (FPA) in infectious disease detection from 2003-2023.
• To highlight the evolution of biorecognition elements and FPA integration with emerging technologies.
• To assess the potential of FPA for improved diagnostics and therapy monitoring of infections.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature published between 2003 and 2023 focusing on FPA for infection detection.
• Analysis of studies employing fluorescently labeled polysaccharides and peptides as biorecognition elements.
• Examination of FPA's adaptability with new equipment, mobile devices, and complementary technologies like PCR and CRISPR/Cas12a.

Main Results:

• FPA has been successfully applied in commercial kits for detecting brucellosis, tuberculosis, and equine infectious anemia viruses.
• The FPA method has demonstrated capability in detecting not only antibodies but also viruses and nucleic acids.
• New biorecognition elements such as aptamers and proteins, alongside FPA, show promise for enhanced detection.

Conclusions:

• FPA is a versatile and evolving technology crucial for the rapid diagnosis of a wide range of infectious diseases.
• The integration of novel biorecognition elements and advanced technologies like PCR and CRISPR/Cas12a significantly expands FPA's diagnostic potential.
• Continued development in FPA is essential for improving infection diagnosis, monitoring treatment efficacy, and preventing disease spread.