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First Zika Virus Detection Kit Developed By Tanaka

Tanaka Kikinzoku Kogyo which operates the Tanaka Precious Metals manufacturing business at Tokyo has developed the world’s first kit able to directly detect the ZIKA virus (ZIKV)*1 in blood. The kit is capable of rapid ZIKV detection in just 10 to 15 minutes. Tanaka Kikinzoku Kogyo plans to supply samples for clinical evaluation with a view to collaboration with domestic and overseas medical manufacturers.

By making it possible for the first time to directly detect ZIKV in blood by immunochromatographic assay*2, the kit realizes simpler, faster and lower cost detection than existing methods.

This is the world’s first kit that detects ZIKV via immunochromatographic assay
There is already an immunochromatographic assay method in practical application that detects the antibodies created in the human body following ZIKV infection, but the new kit makes it possible for the first time to directly detect ZIKV itself when present in the blood. It is simpler, faster and lower in cost than existing methods.

The simple ZIKV detection kit that is currently commercially available detects the antibodies to ZIKV (immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin M) that are producted in the bodies of infected humans, and is therefore not suited

to diagnosing Zika fever in the initial stage of infection. In order to make possible early identification of ZIKV infection, Tanaka Kikinzoku Kogyo applied its store of technology, its unique antibody screening technology, and the nano-colloidal gold manufacturing technologies which it has accumulated over many years to develop a kit capable of direct detection of the virus itself.

It is hoped that the development of the new kit will be highly effective in suppressing the spread of ZIKV infection.

Peace-lover, creative, smart and intelligent. Prapti is a foodie, music buff and a travelholic. After leaving a top-notch full time corporate job, she now works as an Online Editor for Biotecnika. Keen on making a mark in the scientific publishing industry, she strives to find a work-life balance. Follow her for more updates!