Vircell updates its CHAGAS ELISA IgG+IgM product

A new multiantigenic recombinant protein improves the performance of the product

It is a pleasure to announce that we have improved our product CHAGAS ELISA IgG+IgM (Ref. T1020) replacing the 1F8 recombinant antigen by MACH, a multiantigenic recombinant protein (PEP2, TcD, TcE, SAPA) that improves the performance of the product. This change, effective from the batch 12ECHAG103, is conveniently indicated in the instructions for use as well as a warning card included in the kits.

The antibody detection is the main method for the diagnosis of Chagas disease, although cross reactions, especially with sera from leishmaniasis patients, have been the main drawback of these tests. On the other hand, is well known that the populations of the parasite T. cruzi present a great genetic variability and are divided into lineages with differentiated pathogenic, biological and antigenic characteristics. These lineages have different prevalence according to the geographical area.

The use of individualized antigens (recombinant antigen or synthetic peptides) improves the performance of ELISA tests, reducing the cross reactions with other species. In addition, the inclusion of several proteins in these trials greatly improves the diagnostic capacity of the test and allows a better performance in different geographic areas.

Vircell CHAGAS ELISA IgG+IgM kits contain a mixture of three pure proteins bearing the major antigenic epitopes of FRA (a cytoskeleton-associated protein), B13 (a trypomastigote surface protein) and a recombinant multi-antigen protein with epitopes ofPEP2 (a surface protein), TcD (a trans-sialidase), TcE (a ribosomal protein) and SAPA (a trans-sialidase) for optimal results in sensitivity and specificity in all areas of prevalence of Chagas disease.

Once again, we appreciate the cooperation of our distribution network in informing their existing customers about this product update and reaching new potential users.