Identification of Toxoplasma Gondii Epitopes Using Phage Display Libraries for Serodiagnostic Purposes
Date
2024-04-01
Authors
Deena Sayes
Ibrahim Abbasi
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Deanship of Research/ Al-Quds University
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii that can infect humans and animals. Currently, the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis can be performed through various methods, including serological and molecular methods. However, while molecular methods are highly sensitive and specific, they require highly specialized laboratory equipment and high BSL (biosafety levels), which may not be readily available in many settings. Moreover, molecular methods require the use of genetic material, which can pose a risk of infection for laboratory personnel. On the other hand, serological methods are more accessible and affordable, and they can detect the presence of antibodies against T. gondii, which indicates a past or current infection. Additionally, serological methods can identify specific T. gondii antigens or epitopes, which can be used to develop diagnostic tools without the need for live parasites. Thus, there is a need to explore the potential of serological methods for the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis and their potential applications in the development of safer and easier diagnostic tools. The identification of specific epitopes using phage display libraries can improve the specificity and sensitivity of diagnostic assays for T. gondii infection in cats and humans.
Objectives: the research aims to identify specific epitopes that can be used in the diagnosis of Toxoplasma gondii infection using M13 phage display libraries, and then to analyze the sequences of the isolated phages using next generation DNA sequencing and bioinformatics tools.