Technology ID
TAB-2641

Real-time PCR Assay for Detection of Pneumococcal DNA and Diagnosis of Pneumococcal Disease

E-Numbers
E-250-2013-0
Lead Inventor
Sampson, Jacquelyn
Lead IC
CDC
Co-Inventors
Ades, Edwin
Carlone, George
McCaustland, Karen
Carvalho, Maria Da Gloria
ICs
CDC
Applications
Diagnostics
Therapeutic Areas
Infectious Disease
Development Status
  • Pre-clinical
  • In vitro data available
CDC scientists have developed a real-time PCR assay for diagnosing pneumococcal disease using amplification of the bacterial gene encoding pneumococcal surface adhesin A (PsaA). Pneumococcal isolation and identification is often complicated by 1) antimicrobial suppression of growth in culture and 2) contamination by normal flora alpha-streptococci. Further, pneumococcal detection by culture and serological methods can be time-consuming, relatively expensive, laborious and, ultimately, indeterminate. Sensitive and specific assays that can be completed quickly in the clinical laboratory are essential for early diagnosis and effective therapy. This RT-PCR assay provides a tool for quick and accurate diagnosis by physicians and health care technicians and may be useful in evaluating the efficacy of novel pneumococcal vaccines and therapeutics.
Commercial Applications
  • Pneumococcal disease diagnostics and surveillance programs
  • Streptococcus pneumoniae vaccine development and improvementt
  • Evaluation of efficacy of anti-pneumococcal therapeutics
Competitive Advantages
  • Cost-effective
  • Simple to implement
  • Rapid, accurate and objectively conclusive
  • Easily implemented as a kit
Licensing Contact:
Motley, Jonathan
[email protected]