Abstract

A group of Influenza viruses, RNA containing viruses of the Orthomyxoviridae family, consists of Influenza virus types A-D and has been known to cause the Flu, a respiratory illness associated with numerous detrimental symptoms that can lead to death. Influenza A virus (IAV) is constantly changing and is capable of causing pandemics. Currently used diagnostic methods include virus culturing, immunoassays including rapid influenza detection tests (RIDTs), and molecular assays including those based on RT-PCR. Most of the methods can be only performed in the certified diagnostic laboratories equipped with sophisticated instrumentation and/or special biosafety facilities. The results using these methods are not available on a timely basis. RIDTs provide response within 15 minutes but are unable to differentiate between the IAV subtypes. New diagnostic technique, which allows reliable detection of the influenza virus infection and virus genotyping at point-of-care setting, are needed to prevent the spread of the virus and the occurrence of a pandemic. In this project, we propose to use split G-quadruplex (G4) peroxidase probes targeting a fragment of the IAV genome amplified using an isothermal RNA amplification reaction for the detection of IAV infection and virus genotyping. The probes selectively report the virus RNA target with a color change, which can be read by the naked eye. They are capable of differentiating the targets containing as little as a single-nucleotide variation in their sequences. This study aims to optimize the probes, test their selectivity, and calculate the detection limit.

Thesis Completion

2019

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Gerasimova, Yulia

Co-Chair

Harper, James

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Chemistry

Degree Program

Biochemistry

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

5-1-2019

Download

Share

COinS