A Point-of-Care Assay for the Detection of Q fever

The objective of this proposal is to develop point-of-care rapid test assay for the diagnosis of Q-fever. Selected surface membrane protein antigens from Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q-fever will be prepared using TransMembrane Biosciences’ powerful membrane protein mass production technologies. This methodology allows correctly folded and functional membrane proteins to be synthesized in large quantities. The purified recombinant antigens will be used to raise polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies quickly. The recombinant antigens and the corresponding antibodies will then be used for the preparation of nanoparticle conjugates. Subsequently, our industry partner, Pan Probe Biotech and Princeton BioMeditech will utilize these materials to construct point of care rapid test prototype(s) for the detection of C. burnetii or C. burnetii-specific IgM antibodies in blood samples of patients.