Michelle P. Lewis Patent License Manager Rapid Detection of the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) in Saliva Samples Johnson Space Center Advanced Planning Office National Aeronautics and Space Administration

National Aeronautics and Space Administration Technology Summary VZV Testing System – Method for detecting an active varicella zoster virus (VZV) by obtaining a saliva sample. – Uses a sandwich assay of two antibodies, one attached to magnetic particles and other to an enzyme, horseradish peroxidase (HRP). – Sample is applied to a micro-column that contains the magnetic particles immobilized by a magnet. – A solution of luminol, is washed through the device; as it reacts with the HRP, light is emitted to indicate the VZV presence. – Allows for rapid testing in 15 minutes or less in a doctor’s office. – Rapid, simple, non-invasive, sensitive, inexpensive, point-of-care testing (POCT) diagnostic device. Applications – Potential applicability for testing of saliva for other infectious agents.

National Aeronautics and Space Administration Technology Status Associated Intellectual Property – Provisional patent application (61/087,045) filed on 08/07/2008. – The University of Colorado filed a foreign patent (PCT/US2009/052992) on 8/6/2009. – NASA JSC and the University of Colorado have a Joint Ownership Agreement – Available for licensing within the U.S. Development Status – Prototype exists and proof of concept has been demonstrated. – Needs regulatory approval and clinical trials. Market/Opportunity for Technology – 1 million cases of shingles yearly in the U.S. is estimated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Almost half of shingles cases occur in adults 60 years of age. – Overall POCT market is forecasted to be $18.7 billion by 2011

National Aeronautics and Space Administration Contacts NASA JSC Advanced Planning Office Michelle P. Lewis Patent License Manager (281) Website: Inventors Robert E. Harding Randall J. Cohrs Donald H. Gilden Duane L. Pierson Satish K. Mehta