PANDAA: a universal test to quickly identify filoviruses during outbreaks
Official title: PANDAA for universal, pan-lineage molecular detection of filoviruses to enable rapid epidemic response.
Funded at Aldatu Biosciences, INC. · NIH-11316507 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new broad-range diagnostic test aims to rapidly detect and tell apart Ebola and Marburg viruses in people during outbreaks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Aldatu Biosciences, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Watertown, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $996,962 |
| NIH project number | 2R44AI172551-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11316507 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals suspected of having filovirus infections (e.g., during outbreaks in affected areas) who would benefit from rapid, accurate diagnostic results.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without suspected filovirus infection or in settings without outbreak activity may not benefit directly.
What this research studies
This project builds on previous work to create a single, fast molecular test that can identify all Ebolavirus and Marburgvirus species in one reaction. It targets the genetic differences across virus species to deliver quick, reliable results in outbreak settings. By enabling earlier and clearer diagnosis, it supports timely clinical decisions and public health actions. The research focuses on refining the PANDAA approach for universal detection and species differentiation to help clinicians and responders act faster in affected regions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the test could shorten time to diagnosis and improve outbreak response and patient management.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work demonstrated a universal diagnostic for filoviruses and species-level differentiation, showing promise for broader clinical use.
Where this research is happening
-
Aldatu Biosciences, INC.
Watertown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Macleod, Iain James — Aldatu Biosciences, INC.
- Study coordinator: Macleod, Iain James
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
PANDAA universal test for Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHFV)
A new rapid diagnostic test aims to detect all lineages of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus to help people with fever symptoms get timely answers and care.
-
Universal molecular test for Crimean‑Congo hemorrhagic fever
A rapid molecular test that can detect all genetic variants of the virus that causes Crimean‑Congo hemorrhagic fever in people with suspected infection.
-
Developing a universal test for Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever virus.
This study is working on a new test called PANDAA that helps quickly and accurately find the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus, even in its early stages, making it easier for doctors to diagnose patients in areas where this illness is common.
-
Developing a new method for quickly detecting filoviruses like Ebola and Marburg.
This study is working on a new way to quickly and accurately detect Ebola and Marburg viruses, which cause serious illnesses, so that we can better manage outbreaks and keep people safe.
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.