Assessing the performance of TRX and DUF148 antigens for detection of prepatent Guinea worm (<i>Dracunculus medinensis</i>) infection in dogs.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Guinea worm (GW) is a nematode that causes a neglected tropical disease that is targeted for eradication. GW emergence in animals, particularly dogs, has hampered eradication efforts. Currently, there is no method for diagnosing GW infection in animals during the prepatent period. Previous work has identified two immunoreactive antigens, TRXL-1 (TRX) and DUF148.

Methods

This study developed and assessed the performance of an indirect ELISA using these antigens.

Results

Using serum samples from experimentally exposed dogs, TRX and DUF148 showed reactivity at 9- and 11-weeks post-exposure, respectively. These antigens were further assessed using sera of dogs from GW-endemic villages in Chad (n=47) and shelter dogs from the non-endemic United States (n=492).

SUBMITTER: Hakimi H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12678139 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature