Accession Number:

ADA564547

Title:

Plasmodium Genus Assay Transition to the Joint Biological Agent Identification and Diagnostic System (JBAIDS)

Descriptive Note:

Final rept. 1 Oct 2008-30 Sep 2009

Corporate Author:

AIR FORCE MEDICAL WING (59TH) WILFORD HALL AMBULATORY SURGICAL CENTER LACKLAND AFB TX CLINICAL RESEARCH DIV

Personal Author(s):

• Swaby, James A.
• McAvin, James C.

Report Date:

2012-07-12

Pagination or Media Count:

18.0

Abstract:

A Plasmodium genus TaqMan assay 16 tRNA gene target wet assay was successfully developed and tested. The wet assay showed promise as a highly sensitive and specific malaria causative agent detection test however, in the freeze-dried formulation, chronic cross-reactivity occurred. The freeze-dried FD assay was deployed for use in an established vector surveillance program at an AFRIMS field site Mae Sot, Thailand. During field-evaluation, the FD assay consistently reported cross-reactivity against an established negative control panel as well as non-infected mosquito extracts. Fluorescence above background was periodically observed for negative template control NTC reactions. Subsequent to field study, FD assays stored at 4 degrees C were tested using the negative control panel, non-infected mosquito extracts, and NTC. No fluorescence above background was observed using 4 degrees C stored FD assays. The conclusion was probable TaqMan probe degradation due to thermal instability. By the conclusion of the study, the issue was not resolved. Under follow-on studies, a highly sensitive and specific Plasmodium genus TaqMan assay was developed.

Descriptors:

• *DIAGNOSTIC AGENTS
• *MALARIA
• *TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT
• ASSAYING
• FIELD TESTS
• FREEZE DRYING
• PROBES
• THAILAND
• THERMAL INSTABILITY

Subject Categories:

• Biochemistry
• Medicine and Medical Research
• Medical Facilities, Equipment and Supplies

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE