Using iPCR and a multimeric antigen

Lyme disease has been characterized as the fastest growing zoonotic disease in North America and currently diagnosis is both lengthy and inaccurate. The current method entails a two-step process containing both an enzyme immunoassay as well as an immunoblot. Due to the subjectivity of immunoblot analysis as well as a lack of standardization of antigen source and lysate preparations this process can be extremely imprecise.

Invention

UCF researchers discovered a Lyme disease diagnostic that can determine both the stage and type of disease caused by a Borrelia species. This detection method combines the sensitivity of PCR with the specificity and versatility of immunoassay-based protocols. By combining the iPCR approach with a single multimeric antigen, the specificity was further increased. The diagnostic reduces the cost and complexity of current testing and, more importantly, provides a means of reagent standardization, which is lacking with existing commercial assays.

Looking for Partners

Looking for a partner to validate testing, conduct pre-clinical and clinical testing, and commercialize the technology.

Benefits

• Increased specificity
• Simplified and standardized
• Determine type and stage of disease
• Reduced cost

Applications

• Detection of Lyme disease in: North America, animals, developing countries