University to work on hemorrhagic fever antibody test

Professor Albert Rizvanov talks about the new project.

Earlier in 2020, the Center for Precision and Regenerative Medicine produced a test system for COVID-19 antibodies (based on enzyme immunoassay) and a test strip for the same purpose.

“We have conducted research and obtained working lab prototypes. The systems have been used to test ex-patients for antibodies in order for them to become plasma donors. The plasma has been used in Tatarstan in severe cases of COVID,” explains Rizvanov.

The Ministry of Health of Tatarstan has given high praise to the test systems. Further research into them and a vaccine is under discussion. Industrial partners are now needed to register and start mass production of the test systems. The same goes for a potential vaccine.

“We are now discussing this experience to apply it to developing test systems for antibodies to hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. It’s an important issue for the Republic of Tatarstan. We hope to start working on this in 2021. Express tests can be used by local health facilities to conduct preliminary diagnostics,” concludes Professor Rizvanov.

Source text: Rufina Gimaletdinova

Photos: Alexander Kuznetsov

Translation: Yury Nurmeev