A research group led by Associate Professor Yasutoshi Kido of Osaka City University jointly developed a high-precision antibody titer measurement system for new coronavirus infection (COVID-19) with Mokobio Biotechnology (Maryland, USA) in April. Clinical trials started on the 4th.A random sampling test of residual serum from patients who visited the university hospital for purposes other than COVID-15 by the same method revealed that the antibody positive rate was about 19% (announced on May 1).

 The definitive diagnosis of COVID-19, which is spreading worldwide, is based on the PCR test method, but there are problems with accuracy, speed, convenience, and cost effectiveness, and COVID-19, which includes many asymptomatic and mild cases, is explosive. Considering the current situation of the increase, there is a limit to the measures against infectious diseases only by the PCR test method.There is an urgent need to establish an antibody titer measurement method to compensate for the weaknesses of the PCR test method that diagnoses the presence of virus in a sample collected at a certain point in time.

 The living body produces an antibody specific to the infectious virus.Antibodies to SARS-CoV2 are not present in the body unless infected with the new coronavirus (SARSCoV2).Since Ig (immunoglobulin) M antibody appears in the early stage of infection and IgG antibody appears after a certain period of time and enters the recovery phase, the diagnosis of COVID-19 and the time of infection can be estimated depending on the presence or absence of various antibodies.

 In this antibody titer measurement method, a judgment error between examiners is avoided by digital judgment using a fluorescence measuring device. Measurement is possible with a small amount of blood of about 20 μL (0.02 mL), and the risk of medical infection during sample collection is reduced by facilitating sample collection.It is expected to be used for quarantine at airports, fever outpatients, emergency outpatients, etc.

 In the future, by clarifying the relationship between qualitative and quantitative changes in antibodies produced after COVID-19 infection and clinical information, more efficient diagnosis and selection of treatment methods will be possible, and medical resources will be effective. It aims to contribute to measures to prevent the spread of infection while using it.

reference:[Osaka City University] New antibody titer measurement system determines positive with high accuracy! -According to an epidemiological survey, about 1% of people in Osaka retain antibodies-

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