J.B. Scott, E. Dumonteil, C. Herrera
Tulane University,
United States
Keywords: Chagas disease, antigenic peptides, diagnostics
Summary:
Tulane researchers have developed novel serological diagnostics for Chagas disease based on combinations of newly identified Trypanosoma cruzi antigens. Through extensive screening assays, the inventors discovered over 500 specific peptides and peptide mixtures derived from T. cruzi that are recognized by antibodies from infected patients. Current laboratory testing demonstrates that these peptides can be recognized in patient samples with PCR-confirmed diagnosis and can significantly improve the specificity and sensitivity of existing commercial tests. This innovation addresses critical limitations in Chagas diagnosis, a disease affecting millions in Latin America with an annual incidence of 30,000 new cases, 12,000 deaths, and 8,600 infected newborns. The technology shows promise for improved diagnostic accuracy, better detection of various T. cruzi strains, and enhanced reliability for blood screening in endemic regions. The innovation, currently protected through provisional patents, has significant market potential within the growing infectious disease diagnostics sector, which was valued at $56 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $76 billion by 2028.