DNA Tests for Early Detection of Schistosomiasis
Author Information
Author(s): Wang Cen, Chen Lin, Yin Xuren, Hua Wanquan, Hou Min, Ji Minjun, Yu Chuanxin, Wu Guanling
Primary Institution: Nanjing Medical University
Hypothesis
Can DNA-based diagnostics improve early detection of schistosomal infections and evaluate chemotherapy effectiveness?
Conclusion
LAMP is more sensitive than conventional PCR for early detection of Schistosoma japonicum DNA but less effective for evaluating chemotherapy efficacy.
Supporting Evidence
- LAMP detected schistosomal DNA in all serum samples at 1 week post-infection.
- Conventional PCR detected schistosomal DNA in only 50% to 66% of samples at the same time.
- LAMP showed a lower limit of detection of 10-4 ng compared to 10-2 ng for PCR.
- All rabbits treated with artesunate and praziquantel were free from adult worms after treatment.
Takeaway
Scientists are using special DNA tests to find out if people have schistosomiasis early on, which is important for treatment.
Methodology
The study compared the sensitivity of LAMP and conventional PCR assays for detecting Schistosoma japonicum DNA in rabbit blood samples.
Limitations
The study only tested rabbits and did not continue until schistosomal DNA was undetectable in all samples.
Participant Demographics
Japanese White Rabbits were used in the study.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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