Detecting Exposure To Bioterrorism Agents Using Genetic Blood Test

Filed in archive Diagnostics, Methodologies and Instrumentation , Genomics, Proteomics and Bioinformatics on February 24, 2006

This entry is submitted by Gloria Gamat, via Creative Reporter.bioterrorism is becoming a worldwide threat, enough for research scientists to pursue speedy counteractive methods. The quick method scientists are now looking at is a blood test focused on the genetic changes of the white blood cells once a person has been exposed to a bioterrorism agent.

A research team from the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research found that within minutes of exposure to a bioterror agent, white blood cells (leukocytes) produced in the body have altered gene expression. Specific changes in the gene expression that are quite unique to each pathogen can be seen in as little as two hours.

"Use of mathematical modeling tools has identified a list of over 300 genes that can discriminate among eight pathogenic agents with 99 percent accuracy."

The researchers hope to develop hand-held devices that could be used at the site of a suspected bioterrorism attack to quickly identify people who may have been exposed and impose proper care. They also project that within 10 years, this devices may be available for diagnosing a variety of common illnesses, including some types of cancer.

Read full story from Forbes.

About Gloria Gamat: Gloria is a Chemist and a single mom. Gloria also blogs about motherhood at EMothersOnline and about life and travel in the Philippines at The Philippine Culture Blog and at Pinoy Travel Blog respectively.