Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) poses a significant threat with its high mortality rate. In our dedication to combat MERS, our company is focused on creating customized IVD solutions to propel the domain of MERS diagnostics forward. Through the design of cutting-edge IVD reagents/kits and compact diagnostic devices, our aim is to tackle the diagnostic hurdles associated with MERS pathogenesis and revolutionize the detection and control of this infectious disease.
Overview of MERS
Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is a severe respiratory illness primarily affecting the upper respiratory tract. It is caused by the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Symptoms of the disease encompass fever, cough, and shortness of breath, with approximately 35% of affected individuals succumbing to the illness. While some individuals exhibit mild symptoms, others may experience severe complications such as pneumonia and kidney failure. Hence, the development of precise diagnostic tools is paramount for the prompt detection and management of the disease.
Fig. 1 MERS-CoV replication mechanism. (Banerjee, et al., 2019)
Diagnostic Biomarkers for MERS
Diagnostic biomarkers play a pivotal role in the accurate and early detection of infectious diseases like MERS. By identifying specific biomolecules or genetic markers associated with MERS-CoV infection, healthcare providers can swiftly diagnose and isolate infected individuals, preventing further transmission and guiding appropriate therapeutic decisions.
MERS-CoV RNA
The presence of MERS-CoV RNA in respiratory samples such as nasopharyngeal swabs or sputum is a direct indicator of active infection. RT-PCR is commonly used to detect viral RNA and provides a sensitive and specific diagnostic method for MERS.
Antibodies
Specific antibodies produced by the host immune system after infection with MERS-CoV can be used as biomarkers for MERS diagnosis. ELISA tests can identify IgM and IgG antibodies in serum samples, indicating recent or past infection.
Antigens
Specific viral proteins expressed during MERS-CoV replication can be used as diagnostic markers. Immunofluorescence assays or Western blotting can identify viral antigens in samples, providing insight into active viral replication.
IVD Development for MERS
The development of IVD kits for Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) is critical in the fight against this infectious disease. These kits are indispensable tools for early detection, accurate diagnosis, outbreak control, and personalized therapeutics. Based on biomarkers for MERS diagnosis, the following types of IVD kits can be developed.
| Kits |
Applications |
Detection Methods |
| MERS-CoV RNA Detection Kit |
Detection of viral RNA in samples. |
RT-PCR |
| IgM/IgG Antibody Detection Kit |
Identification of MERS-specific IgM and IgG antibodies in serum samples. |
ELISA |
| MERS-CoV Antigen Detection Kit |
Detection of specific MERS-CoV proteins or antigens. |
Immunofluorescence Assays (IFA) |
| Point-of-care Test (POCT) Kit |
These kits can detect viral antigens in samples within minutes, enabling rapid therapeutic decisions. |
Lateral Flow Immunoassays |
Our Services
Focusing on providing cutting-edge IVD solutions for rare infectious diseases such as Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), our company is committed to developing customized antigen, antibody and RNA test kits to enhance early detection and effective control of MERS. Our IVD equipment helps automate diagnosis, thereby saving manpower and improving detection efficiency.
IVD Product Development Services
Acknowledging the significance of point-of-care testing (POCT) in regions with limited resources, our team of experts specializes in creating swift diagnostic solutions for on-site Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) testing. Our companion diagnostic development services concentrate on integrating diagnostic tests with tailored therapeutics to facilitate personalized care for MERS.
If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us for more details and quotation information of related services.
Reference
- Banerjee, Arinjay, Kaushal Baid, and Karen Mossman. "Molecular pathogenesis of middle east respiratory syndrome (MERS) coronavirus." Current Clinical Microbiology Reports 6 (2019): 139-147.
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only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
