Development of a very rapid diagnostic test for malaria, based on break-through detection technology and new biomarkers of infection (MalaDiag)

A key advantage of the project’s approach lies in the combination of an innovative detection device with novel biomarkers that should significantly improve the quality of testing and the ability to implement mass testing campaigns.  The ambition is for this diagnostic device to become the reference technology in all malaria-endemic areas.

This device is expected to overcome most shortcomings identified in devices currently on the market. The expected added value of our proposed diagnostic device to users is multiple, including:

• Rapidity: 1 minute vs. 15-20 minutes required for most current tests. This is a major competitive advantage for cross-sectional testing necessary for eradication efforts;
• Highly-sensitive device, including quantitative evaluations (picomolar detection);
• Several simultaneous measures to distinguish parasite species (P. falciparum / P. vivax);
• Infection parameters (parasite density and antibody response): the comprehensive nature of our diagnostic read-outs provides information on prognosis and/or therapeutic response in addition to simple yes/no diagnoses; and
• Functional and reliable in expected field conditions (tropical environments).

MalaDiag

Diagnostics
Product Development

Dec 2014 — May 2015

$62,233

France