A primer set and a process for the detection of L3 larval stage of Wuchereria bancrofti
Technology Description
Species-specific PCR assays for detecting lymphatic filarial parasites viz., Wuchereria bancrofti and Brugia malayi in vectors have been developed recently and refined as simple methods. This method can distinguish between different filarial species and hence can be useful for determining the infection. However, these assays cannot differentiate between different stages of filarial parasites occurring in vectors. This information is necessary for working out infectivity rates which is essential for assessing the transmission of infection in an endemic area. This highlights the need for infective stage (L3) specific tools. ICMR have developed a RT-PCR assay for detecting L3 stage parasite in vectors, which has high specificity and sensitivity. The assay has potential application for xenomonitoring (detecting parasites in vector mosquitoes) in the ongoing global lymphatic filariasis elimination programme. It can be used in filariasis endemic countries for assessing the transmission of infection in the on-going filariasis elimination programme. This technology has been further formatted to Real-Time PCR assay; thereby increasing sensitivity.
Institution: NITM
Category : Diagnostic
Cost effective : YES-Improvement done: the conventional RT-PCR technology has been formatted to Real-Time PCR assay
In vivo studies : No information
Life of Patent : Upto 2026 (9 years left.)
Prototype : Yes
Public health relevance : YES -It can be used in filariasis endemic countries for assessing the transmission of infection in the on-going filariasis elimination programme.
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