Introduction: Collaborative Effort Yields Steadfast Diagnostic Kit
The Diagnostics Development Hub (DxD Hub), a national platform hosted by the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, has successfully developed Steadfast, an advanced diagnostic kit for detecting the highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus (AIV). This development is a significant breakthrough in avian influenza monitoring, reinforcing global efforts in pandemic preparedness.
Rapid and Accurate Detection of H5N1 Strains
Steadfast not only enables rapid detection of the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus (AIV) but also distinguishes between highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) and low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) strains. This distinction is critical for implementing effective control measures. Unlike conventional sequencing methods that take up to three days to yield results, Steadfast detects HPAI H5 strains—such as H5N1, H5N5, and H5N6—in just three hours. This rapid detection is crucial for monitoring migratory birds, issuing timely warnings, and enhancing biosecurity at poultry facilities.
Why Speed Matters: Reducing Risks and Controlling Outbreaks
HPAI strains, known for their high lethality, spread throughout the body of poultry and require immediate culling to prevent widespread outbreaks. In contrast, LPAI strains are less severe, affecting only the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems and causing milder symptoms. This allows for less drastic measures, such as enhanced monitoring and biosecurity protocols. By enabling swift and accurate identification of the specific strain, Steadfast ensures timely and targeted responses, which can significantly reduce transmission risks and help prevent devastating epidemics.
Global Threat of H5N1: Spread and Transmission
The H5N1 AIV is primarily spread by birds, particularly poultry, through direct contact, contaminated surfaces, or infected droppings. Migratory wild birds often carry the virus across long distances, transmitting it to domestic poultry populations, where it can trigger severe outbreaks. Infected poultry can act as reservoirs, spreading the virus to other birds—and, in rare cases, to humans. Despite limited human transmission, H5N1 remains a global concern due to its high mortality rate and potential for mutation into new strains.
Collaboration Drives Innovation: DxD Hub, NIES, and A*STAR BII
DxD Hub played a central role in developing the multiplex assay prototype test kits, including the design of clinical testing protocols, data analysis, and assay optimization. Validated by the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES), Japan’s primary laboratory for avian influenza testing in wild birds, the kit successfully classified avian influenza viruses detected in wild birds in Japan from 2022 to 2024 based on their pathogenicity. A*STAR BII contributed bioinformatics expertise in virus sequencing, structure, and evolution, supporting the integration of PCR diagnostics. This partnership enabled the development of a timely, cost-effective diagnostic tool to complement genomic surveillance and track ongoing H5N1 outbreaks.
Enhancing Detection and Control Measures
The close collaboration between DxD Hub, NIES, and A*STAR BII ensured the diagnostic kit’s effectiveness in detecting both HPAI and LPAI strains in real-world clinical and field applications. This partnership underscores the success of joint efforts to enhance detection and control measures for avian influenza, helping curb the spread of the virus and safeguard public health.
Key Remarks from Experts Involved in the Project
Dr. Weng Ruifen, Chief Executive Officer of DxD Hub, expressed pride in the collaboration:
“DxD Hub is pleased to have worked with global ecosystem partners like NIES and A*STAR BII to develop the H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus diagnostic test kit. This achievement reflects our shared commitment to enhancing zoonotic disease surveillance and pandemic preparedness.”
Dr. ONUMA Manabu, Head of the NIES Biodiversity Resource Conservation Office, highlighted the global significance of the development:
“Highly pathogenic avian influenza has caused mass mortality in chickens and wild birds not only in Japan but worldwide. Recently, infections have also been confirmed in seals, cats, cattle, and even humans, raising concerns about a potential next pandemic virus. These events underline the virus’s rapid mutation, emphasizing the need for an effective surveillance system and fast detection methods to prevent infection spread. The kit developed through our joint project addresses these needs, and its widespread use is expected to help manage the spread of infection and alleviate public concerns.”
Dr. Sebastian Maurer-Stroh, Executive Director of ASTAR BII, added:
“ASTAR BII is pleased to support the development of this advanced AIV diagnostic kit, leveraging our bioinformatics expertise. Viral genomes evolve quickly, and rapid, accurate detection is critical for containing potential outbreaks and minimizing zoonotic spillovers. This kit enhances our ability to safeguard food security, public health, and economic stability, both in Singapore and globally.”
Conclusion: A Step Forward in Global Pandemic Preparedness
The Steadfast diagnostic kit represents a major leap forward in avian influenza detection and monitoring, providing a faster, more accurate, and cost-effective solution for managing H5N1 outbreaks. Its development is a prime example of how international collaboration can lead to innovative solutions that protect public health and prevent global health crises.
Source:
Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore
Date: Nov 22 2024
