Near East University Advances Global Health Preparedness with Rapid PCR Diagnostic Kits for Emerging Viral Threats
Date Added: 06 November 2023, 08:00
Last Updated Date:11 December 2023, 10:12

Near East University Advances Global Health Preparedness with Rapid PCR Diagnostic Kits for Emerging Viral Threats

Near East University researchers are leveraging their experience from the COVID-19 pandemic to develop PCR Diagnostic Kits for detecting viruses that can cause dangerous epidemics such as Dengue Fever, Chikungunya Virus, Monkey Pox, Hepatitis Delta Virus, FIP Virus, and West Nile Virus. Having previously developed the TRNC’s domestic PCR and Variant Analysis Kit for COVID-19, which received approval from the Ministries of Health in Turkey and TRNC, the university continues its research into new PCR Kits. The latest addition is the “VecBornDis West Nile Virus qRT-PCR Diagnostic Kit,” capable of detecting the West Nile Virus within two hours, facilitating prompt and effective treatment.

The West Nile Virus, transmitted through mosquitoes, exhibits symptoms in 20% of cases, including high fever, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, headaches, nausea, and skin rashes. In 1% of cases affecting the central nervous system, severe consequences, including death, may occur. The PCR Diagnostic Kit provides a rapid and reliable diagnosis, crucial for successful treatment.

This initiative builds upon Near East University’s prior success in developing the TRNC’s domestic PCR kit for SARS-CoV-2. The university’s DESAM Research Institute Kit Production and Genome Analysis Laboratory, equipped with qualified researchers, is actively contributing to global health preparedness. These efforts align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9), Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17), and indirectly, Zero Hunger (SDG 2) through a GMO Screening Kit for food analysis.

Near East University Rector, Prof. Dr. Tamer Şanlıdağ, emphasizes the importance of being prepared for future epidemics, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cenk Serhan Özverel, the Director of DESAM Research Institute, underscores the significance of the PCR Diagnostic Kits in strengthening healthcare systems against epidemics. Their commitment extends beyond the national scope, with potential global implications for addressing various viral threats.

For more information:
https://neu.edu.tr/near-east-university-developed-a-pcr-diagnostic-kit-that-can-detect-west-nile-virus-in-two-hours-which-was-also-seen-in-the-trnc-last-month/?lang=en