UP Manila Experts Develop Test Kit for High-Risk Leptopirosis Complications
With the rainy season just around the corner, experts from the University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) National Institutes of Health-Institute of Human Genetics (NIH-IHG) unveiled a test kit capable of accurately predicting which leptospirosis p…
With the rainy season just around the corner, experts from the University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) National Institutes of Health-Institute of Human Genetics (NIH-IHG) unveiled a test kit capable of accurately predicting which leptospirosis patients are at risk of developing serious complications. This test kit will allow medical professionals to better monitor and provide priority care for these patients, heading off potentially deadly kidney and lung problems.
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection usually spread via contact with water contaminated with animal urine. The disease frequently presents itself through mild flu-like symptoms, but around 5% of all cases can progress to more serious conditions like Weil's syndrome, which lead to serious complications like kidney failure and lung hemorrhage.
The NIH-IHG developed a molecular test kit which works by detecting and measuring proteins in leptospirosis patients that are implicated in kidney and lung problems. Dubbed the Molecular Detection of Complement Factor I and Alpha-Defensin Prognosticators for Leptospirosis kit, the innovation quantifies, measures and monitors the action of two (2) proteins specifically: Complement Factor I (CF1) and Alpha-Defensin (DEFA). These biomarkers monitor lung hemorrhage (CF1) and kidney failure (DEFA), respectively, giving doctors vital clues on the appropriate treatment courses for high-risk patients.
Currently, the platform uses quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) but its team of developers is looking to expand to more common platforms like enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and lateral flow assays to expand its reach.
"Leptospirosis poses a significant health problem, especially during the rainy season in the Philippines," said Senior Research Associate Rafael Joshua De Guzman, who presented the test kit at the Philippine Pharma Healthcare Expo on February 15, 2024. Research shows, De Guzman said, that more than 4,000 cases are recorded annually, with a mortality rate of around 11%. However, that mortality rate rises to around 30% for untreated individuals.
"Worst of all, it affects people in the prime stage of their lives, aged 20 to 40. However, this can be prevented. Early recognition of complications can lead to more focused monitoring and initiation of preventive strategies," De Guzman said.
Photo shows a screenshot of Leptospira bacterial organisms when viewed with a microscope. The photo is taken from a video recording shared by the UP Manila with the UP Media and Public Relations Office. UP MPRO file photo.
Currently, the IHG has patented the CF1 and DEFA biomarker tests both locally and internationally, with a working prototype having been validated in two independent studies. De Guzman said that the next step will be to register with the local FDA and seek international distribution partners.
The CFI technology was developed by a team composed of Dr. Jose B. Nevado, Jr., NIH-IHG; Dr. Nina G. Gloriani, vaccine expert and former dean, College of Public Health (CPH); Dr. Jamie D. Trifalgar-Arches; Dr. Evalyn A. Roxas, Associate Professor and College Secretary, CPH; Dr. Catherine Lynn T. Silao, NIH-IHG; Dr. Maridel P. Borja, CPH; Dr. Regina P. Berba, Hospital Infection Control Unit (HICU), Philippine General Hospital; Dr. Sharon Yvette Angelina M. Villanueva, CPH; Dr. Manuel D. Yoro; Christian Deo T. Deguit, NIH-IHG; Aubrey Mae D. Lipa, NIH-IHG; and Reneez Aiyana G. Felix, NIH-IHG.
The DEFA1 technology was developed by Dr. Nevado, Dr. Gloriani, Dr. Borja, Dr. Roxas, Dr. Berba, and Dr. Silao.
For inquiries regarding this technology, contact Dr. Jose V. Nevado Jr., MD, PhD, Research Arm Head, Molecular Research and Diagnostic Unit, Institute of Human Genetics, National Institutes of Health, UP Manila. Tel.: (632) 5310-5731 loc 113 Email: jbnevado1@up.edu.ph
The original news release by UP Manila can be found here.
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