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Abstract : Traditional antigen production for gambiense Human African Trypanosomiasis (gHAT) diagnostics faces challenges with biohazardous cultures and extensive rodent use. Recently, we developed genetically modified Trypanosoma brucei brucei strains that express T. b. gambiense VSG surface antigens in vitro, offering a safer and ethically produced alternative. These recombinant antigens are designed for diverse diagnostic formats, ranging from whole-cell-based diagnostics like immune trypanolysis to purified VSG applications in ELISAs and RDTs. This innovation enables accessible, scalable, and high-specificity diagnostics, essential for implementing effective “screen-and-treat” strategies, post-hoc confirmation of infection in reference laboratories, and advancing gHAT elimination efforts in endemic regions.
Link to your website: https://research.itg.be/en/persons/nick-van-reet