Rapid diagnostic tests for avian influenza virus using high-affinity DNA aptamers

As we are fighting a growing number of bird flu outbreaks in Canada caused by highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) subtype H5N1, it is critical that we have in place fast and simple testing technologies to detect the presence of HPAI virus. Canada needs reliable and cost-effective diagnostic technologies that allow for real-time mass testing for HPAI viruses. The goal of this proposal is to adapt and optimize existing technologies, originally developed by a team of researchers at McMaster University for bacterial and SARS-CoV-2 detection, into a rapid point-of-need test for HPAI viruses. The test targets protein biomarkers specific to the virus to increase the accuracy of the test. It targets viral proteins using molecular hands made of DNA (called DNA aptamers), which convert the presence of HPAI into an easily detectable signal using simple devices. The key molecules for the test are high-affinity aptamers that are specially engineered to make the test highly sensitive. The devices for the test are very simple and cheap, resembling a home pregnancy test or a glucose meter. The test focuses on saliva as the sample source (to ensure that the test can be performed by the untrained people), it uses fast chemical and biochemical reactions, and the test reagents that are high stable. The entire process can be completed 10-20 minutes by untrained people, and therefore, it is suitable for use at any point of need. Our team has already obtained proof-of-concept for most components of the test and will aim to optimize and integrate these components into a test kit and validate with real life samples. We are also working with a Canadian industrial partner who can help with manufacturing and distribution of tests.