A new test to quickly diagnose Chagas disease caused by T. cruzi infection
Point-of-care diagnostic test for T. cruzi (Chagas) infection
This study is working on a quick and easy test for Chagas disease that can be used in places where healthcare resources are limited, helping to accurately diagnose the infection for people who are at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kephera Diagnostics, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Framingham, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11061837 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a point-of-care diagnostic test for Chagas disease, which is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. The test aims to provide accurate and rapid diagnosis, especially in low-resource settings where the disease is prevalent. By addressing the challenges of current serological tests, which often require multiple assays for accurate results, this project seeks to improve the detection of the infection in at-risk populations. The methodology involves creating an antigen-based detection system that can be used in various healthcare settings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in or originating from regions where Chagas disease is endemic, particularly those who may have been exposed to the T. cruzi parasite.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have exposure to T. cruzi or who are not at risk for Chagas disease are unlikely to benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more accurate diagnoses of Chagas disease, ultimately improving patient outcomes and treatment options.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing rapid diagnostic tests for other infectious diseases, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Framingham, UNITED STATES
- Kephera Diagnostics, LLC — Framingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Levin, Andrew E. — Kephera Diagnostics, LLC
- Study coordinator: Levin, Andrew E.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.