Antigenic Peptides to Diagnose Chagas Disease
The Problem
Chagas disease, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi), is a severe health problem in Latin America and is an emerging disease in non-endemic countries. In recent years, the epidemiological profile of the disease has changed due to new immigration patterns and unsuccessful transmission control. Chagas disease exhibits an annual incidence of 30,000 new cases, 12,000 deaths, and 8,600 infected newborns. There are no vaccines available, and only two drugs with severe side effects are approved to treat Chagas (nifurtimox, and benznidazole). Therefore, early detection and treatment of the disease is essential for optimal clinical outcomes, reduced morbidity, and blood transfusion-associated infections. However, existing diagnostics tests are limited, complicated, and expensive.
The Solution
Tulane researchers have identified new T. cruzi antigens that can be used as serological diagnostics for identifying those with Chagas. Through several screening assays, the inventors discovered over 500 specific peptides and peptide mixtures derived from T. cruzi that are recognized by antibodies from infected patients. The inventors are using these antigens to develop a diagnostic test that can be used to identify patients and screen blood for infection.
The Opportunity
The technology is in the in vitro laboratory testing stage of development, with patient samples used for screening and testing. The inventors have shown that their peptides can be recognized by patient samples with PCR-confirmed diagnosis. Also, data indicate that the new antigens can identify patients that were not detected by existing tests.
