Tools for Nipah Virus Detection and Research
Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic, highly pathogenic virus that continues to pose a serious public-health threat in parts of South and Southeast Asia. Since its discovery in 1998, recurrent outbreaks have been reported in countries such as Malaysia, Bangladesh, and India, often associated with high mortality and significant epidemic potential.
The virus is classified as a priority pathogen because of its high case-fatality rate, potential for human-to-human transmission, and the absence of licensed vaccines or specific antiviral therapies.
Clinical data from multiple outbreaks show that Nipah virus infection typically presents with fever, neurological symptoms such as confusion or altered consciousness, and respiratory complications. Across 717 documented cases, the median case-fatality rate was approximately 69%, and many survivors experienced long-term neurological deficits.
Because of its severity and epidemic potential, there is a strong global emphasis on developing standardized diagnostics, vaccines, and therapeutic approaches.
Research Needs and Diagnostic Approaches
Recent studies highlight major research priorities, including improved diagnostics, standardized assays, and a better understanding of immune correlates of protection. Currently, most laboratory confirmation relies on molecular detection of viral RNA and serological assays to identify anti-Nipah antibodies.
For example, national surveillance programs use:
- Real-time RT-PCR to detect viral RNA in clinical samples.
- ELISA assays to detect anti-Nipah IgM or IgG antibodies.
These methods form the backbone of outbreak detection, surveillance, and clinical research.
To support these critical research areas, a range of validated reagents and assay systems are available. These products enable investigations into viral structure, host–pathogen interactions, immune responses, and diagnostic assay development.
Primary Antibodies
- For Western blot, immunofluorescence, and other immunoassays
- Enable detection of viral proteins in infected cells or tissues
- Nipah virus nucleoprotein antibodies
- Antibodies targeting surface glycoproteins – Useful for studies on viral entry and neutralization
Recombinant Proteins and Peptides
- Suitable for antigen production, antibody generation, and assay calibration
- Recombinant Nipah nucleoprotein and glycoproteins
- Used for epitope mapping and immune response studies
- Synthetic peptides
Immunoassay Kits
- For detection of anti-Nipah antibodies or cellular immune responses
- ELISA and ELISPOT kits
- Example: Nipah Virus Glycoprotein G / Ephrin-B2 binding assays
- Support research on viral entry mechanisms and neutralization
- Ligand-binding assay kits
Molecular Detection Tools
- For sensitive detection of Nipah viral RNA
- Essential for surveillance, diagnostics, and experimental studies
- Real-time RT-PCR kits
Nipah virus remains a major focus of global preparedness initiatives due to its high lethality and lack of approved countermeasures.
International efforts are currently directed toward:
- Development of standardized assays and reference materials
- Vaccine candidates and monoclonal antibody therapies
- Improved diagnostics suitable for field and clinical-trial settings
Access to reliable antibodies, recombinant proteins, and diagnostic kits is essential to accelerate these research and development efforts.
Explore Nipah Virus Research Products
A selection of validated Nipah virus reagents—including antibodies, recombinant proteins, ELISA kits, and molecular detection tools—is available on our website to support research in virology, immunology, and diagnostics.
Browse Full Nipah Virus Product Range
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