Anglo-American life science firm AMSBIO announces a new range of recombinant antigens and antibodies for Zika virus, which are suited for the development of rapid assays and to overcome the problem of cross-reactivity with related viruses.
The Zika virus (ZIKV), which is borne by mosquitos, is causing worldwide concern because of its connection to a neurological birth disorder and its rapid spread across the globe. The imminent 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil, where the epidemic started, is as a consequence suffering withdrawals from a growing number of competitors.
ZIKV is closely related to other mosquito-borne flaviviruses and is primarily transmitted by infected Aedes species mosquitos (A. aegypti and A. albopictus). Recently spread of the virus through blood transfusion and sexual contact has also been reported. Consequently there is an urgent medical need for rapid ZIKV diagnostic assays to screen large numbers of samples in the field.
Existing tests...
Interested in reading more?
The Scientist ARCHIVES
Become a Member of
