Background
Serological
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have successfully developed an in-house VLP-ELISA to detect IgG antibodies against three antigens of SARS-CoV-2 as a simple and affordable alternative test.
Methods
Dot blot analysis was performed to confirm the presence of S, E, and M proteins in PRAK-03202. The number of particles in PRAK-03202 was measured using nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA). The sensitivity of VLP-ELISA was evaluated in 100 COVID positive. PRAK-03202 was produced at a 5 L scale using fed-batch fermentation.
Results
Dot blot confirmed the presence of S, E, and M proteins in PRAK-03202. The number of particles in PRAK-03202 was 1.21 × 109 mL-1. In samples collected >14 days after symptom onset, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of VLP-ELISA were 96%. We did not observe any significant differences in sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy when post-COVID-19 samples were used as negative controls compared to pre-COVID-samples. At a scale of 5 L, the total yield of PRAK-03202 was 100-120 mg/L.