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New rapid detection test could help combat HPAI

Researchers at Purdue University have created a rapid detection test that could help poultry producers combat highly pathogenic avian influenza faster. 

Mohit Verma, associate professor of ag and biological engineering, says it detects the H5 strain of the virus. 

“We put all of these reagents that are needed for this assay on these paper-based devices and the paper-based devices will change color from red to yellow if the target is present,” he says. “That way if there needs to be quarantine methods, they can do that quickly.”

He tells Brownfield the next step is commercialization. 

“The technology would get licensed through my product company and it will have to go through regulatory approvals with more clinical studies,” he says. “We would need some funding and resources to make it happen.”

Once approved, Verma says his team will continue to work on the tests to make them more cost effective for producers and members of the industry. 

The research was done in collaboration with the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research and supported by an award through the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences. 

AUDIO: Mohit Verma, Purdue University