KOTA KINABALU: The Center for Research and Innovation, UMS has launched a series of diagnostic antigens for the detection of antibodies elicited by leptospira in human patients.
According to the deputy director of the Center for Research and Innovation, Dr. Azizi, these antigens can be used in a standard Enzyme Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay (ELISA) by any diagnostic laboratory which is involved in the detection of leptospira-specific antibodies in serum samples.
“The antigens were developed and tested by Associate Professor Dr Kenneth F. Rodrigues and Associate Professor Dr Daisy Vanitha John, researchers at the Biotechnology Research Institute, Universiti Malaysia Sabah in association with Public Health Laboratory, Kota Kinabalu,” he said in a statement yesterday.
He said leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that affects humans and animals. It is caused by bacteria of the genus leptospira.
“In humans, it can cause a wide range of symptoms, some of which may be mistaken for other diseases. Some infected persons, however, may have no symptoms at all.
“Without treatment, leptospirosis can lead to kidney damage, meningitis (inflammation of the membrane around the brain and spinal cord), liver failure, respiratory distress, and even death,” he added.
Previously, the high cost of imported antigens added to the cost of diagnosis. The antigens developed by the UMS researchers have been tested using serum samples derived from local patients and the production cost is significantly lower.
Dr Azizi has also emphasized that UMS is committed to developing innovations which will be of benefit to society and the national economy. The diagnostic antigens may be acquired from the Biotechnology Research Institute, UMS.