New methods to test for antibodies against COVID-19 using dried blood samples.
Official title: High-Throughput Dried Blood Spot (HT-DBS) Technologies in SARS COV-2 Serology and Vaccinology
Funded at Wadsworth Center · NIH-10688352 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to check large groups of people for antibodies to the COVID-19 virus, using a special test on dried blood spots to see how well people have responded to infections and vaccinations, which will help us understand how the virus spreads in the community and prepare for future outbreaks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wadsworth Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Menands, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $592,301 |
| NIH project number | 4U01CA260508-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10688352 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been exposed to SARS-CoV-2 or have received a COVID-19 vaccine.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to SARS-CoV-2 and have not received a vaccine may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced techniques to screen large populations for antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. By utilizing dried blood spots and a specialized immunoassay, the project aims to measure both the quantity and quality of antibodies resulting from natural infections and vaccinations. This approach will enhance our understanding of community exposure to the virus and help predict future outbreaks. The research is being conducted at the Wadsworth Center and aims to improve serological testing methods to better manage the pandemic.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and widespread testing for COVID-19 antibodies, aiding in public health responses and vaccination strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using similar serological testing approaches for infectious diseases, indicating potential for this method in COVID-19 antibody detection.
Where this research is happening
-
Wadsworth Center
Menands, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mantis, Nicholas J. — Wadsworth Center
- Study coordinator: Mantis, Nicholas J.
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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.