Creating a quick test to detect a deadly brain-eating amoeba.
Development of a latex-agglutination assay for the rapid detection of Naegleria fowleri
This study is working on a quick test that can help doctors find a harmful amoeba called Naegleria fowleri in spinal fluid in just 15 minutes, making it easier and faster to diagnose serious brain infections and potentially save lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11056249 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a rapid latex-agglutination assay to detect Naegleria fowleri, a dangerous amoeba that can cause severe brain infections. The approach involves using antibodies derived from rabbits inoculated with the amoeba to create a test that can identify the presence of Naegleria fowleri in cerebrospinal fluid within 15 minutes. By comparing this new method to existing diagnostic techniques, the researchers aim to establish a faster and more efficient way to diagnose infections, potentially saving lives.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals, particularly children under 11 years old, who may be at risk for infections caused by Naegleria fowleri.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for Naegleria fowleri infections or those who have already been diagnosed and treated may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to quicker diagnoses of Naegleria fowleri infections, allowing for timely treatment and improved patient outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While rapid diagnostic tests for other pathogens have shown success, this specific approach for Naegleria fowleri is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Galveston, United States
- University of Texas Med Br Galveston — Galveston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rojo, Juan Ulises — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Rojo, Juan Ulises
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.