Clipping of news on Brazilian Culture, Law and Citizenship
28/06/2013
This article was translated by an automatic translation system, and was therefore not reviewed by people.
RIO - The newest weapon in the war against dengue is made of gold nanoparticles. A test done with this material is able to detect all four types of the virus in mosquitoes, according to study published Thursday in the journal "Virology Journal". The method, developed by U.S. researchers from the University of Notre Dame, is low cost, easy to use and carry, even at temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius.
DNA molecules bound to the gold nanoparticles can recognize a part of the sequence of the genetic material (RNA) present in the four types of dengue viruses. This reaction can be observed with the naked eye because the color change occurs. The major application of the new examination is to enable profiling of spread of the epidemic, indicating the viruses that are in circulation.
Scientists explain that it is possible to detect the presence of dengue virus in samples containing ten to twenty mosquitoes. Experts continue working to improve the method in order to detect the infection in just a single mosquito or cell. According to the lead author, James Cartes is not necessary skilled personnel to administer the test, given its simplicity.
- The full development of our approach will allow detection of the type of virus in mosquitoes in a practical, fast and low cost. And, possibly, the same can be done in infected patients. The result is ready in minutes and no need to mobilize specialized personnel - Cartes said.
Against dengue virus vaccine there. The disease affects about 100 million people worldwide each year. Half of them need to be hospitalized, and approximately 2.5% (mostly children) die. According Helium Magarinos Torres Filho, regional president of the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology and Medical Director of the Rio Laboratory Richet, is vital to detect dengue early.
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Source: Extra - online
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This article was translated by an automatic translation system, and was therefore not reviewed by people.