Developing a quick test to diagnose active Hepatitis C infections

Rapid Antigen Test for Diagnosis of Active HCV Infection

['FUNDING_R21'] · RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11056205

This study is working on a quick and easy test to help people find out if they have an active Hepatitis C infection, making it simpler for those at risk to get diagnosed and treated right away.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11056205 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a rapid antigen test for diagnosing active Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections, which affect millions globally. The approach involves developing a low-cost, instrument-free test that can be used at the point of care, making it accessible to at-risk populations. By detecting HCV core antigens in the blood, the test aims to identify individuals who are unaware of their infection status, thereby facilitating timely treatment and reducing transmission rates. The methodology includes immunizing mice to produce specific antibodies that can be used in the test.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Hepatitis C infection, including those in low- and middle-income countries and injecting drug users.

Not a fit: Patients who are already diagnosed and receiving treatment for Hepatitis C may not benefit directly from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve early diagnosis and treatment of Hepatitis C, potentially saving lives and reducing the spread of the virus.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing rapid tests for viral infections, indicating that this approach could be effective for Hepatitis C as well.

Where this research is happening

Newark, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.