Development of rapid mosquito-borne virus diagnostics

Researchers are advancing rapid, point-of-care diagnostic tests for mosquito-borne viruses to improve clinical management and epidemiological surveillance.

In Argentina, investigators at the Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Rosario (IBR, CONICET-UNR) are developing a low-cost test for the dengue virus. Led by Elisa Bolatti, the project targets the NS1 protein, a viral marker that remains consistent across all four dengue serotypes. The method utilizes synthetic aptamers as molecular sensors rather than traditional animal antibodies, offering higher precision and greater stability for mass manufacturing. Recently supported by the Williams Foundation, this tool aims to provide an accessible alternative to resource-intensive PCR testing in emergency rooms and field operations.

In Greece, scientists at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) are working on a portable device to detect the West Nile virus, Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya. Led by Professor Maria Gazouli, this research is part of the SURVIVE-VBD European initiative, a 4-million-euro project funded by the EU4Health program involving partners from Spain, Estonia, Italy, the Netherlands, and Brazil. The device uses graphene biosensors to provide results from a single drop of blood in under one hour. The development is considered critical due to rising West Nile virus cases in the Attica region, driven by climate change and the spread of invasive mosquito species.