Researchers from the University of the Philippines (UP) have developed a new, potentially affordable test for trichomoniasis, a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). This breakthrough could significantly aid in the global effort to reduce the impact of STIs, a key public health concern.
Trichomoniasis, caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, affects millions worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) aims to eliminate STI epidemics by 2030, but trichomoniasis remains a persistent challenge. A significant problem is that 70-85% of those infected show no symptoms, highlighting the need for accurate and accessible diagnostic tools.
Dr. Christine Aubrey Justo and Dr. Windell Rivera of UP Diliman’s Institute of Biology, collaborating with international colleagues, have developed a novel detection method. Instead of relying on antibodies, their test uses aptamers – short DNA strands that bind to specific targets within the parasite.
“In this research, we conducted a series of sandwich enzyme-linked aptamer-based assays (ELAAs) to determine which aptamers could detect low concentrations of the parasite,” explained Dr. Justo. Their study identified a successful pairing of aptamers (A1_14mer and A6) for detecting T. vaginalis in clinical samples.
This method, using the sandwich ELAA process, offers a path towards developing more affordable and user-friendly tests. One potential adaptation is the already-reported aptamer-based lateral flow assay. “With the flexible and amplifiable nature of aptamers, many more aptamer-based point-of-care tests (POCTs) for trichomoniasis can be created,” said Dr. Justo, emphasizing that further funding is crucial to bring these tests to healthcare settings.
The researchers’ findings, published in Analytical Biochemistry: Methods in the Biological Sciences, contribute significantly to the WHO’s global research priorities for STIs. Access to rapid and affordable trichomoniasis tests is vital for identifying cases, controlling the spread of infection, managing complications, and improving treatment outcomes. This new test offers hope for a more effective approach to tackling this prevalent STI.
