One-step rapid syphilis test uses layered nanoparticles to detect infection earlier
Penicillin has cured syphilis cases since 1943, but symptoms of the sexually transmitted infection, known as "the great imitator," mimic many other diseases and can come and go without treatment while the infection keeps causing harm. If it remains undetected, it can spread to partners and to babies during pregnancy, causing lifelong effects.
A new rapid syphilis test developed by Penn State researchers could detect infections earlier and simplify the diagnostic process. The test uses layered nanoparticles that are more sensitive to lower concentrations of antibodies, which can be difficult to detect, especially during early infection, later stages, or after treatment.
These nanoparticles, composed of an alternating layer of gold and silver, produce stronger lines than conventional gold nanoparticles and remain visible with fewer sample target molecules. The test does not replace the traditional treponemal and non-treponemal tests but aims to provide a faster and point-of-care format with the same sequence of diagnostic information.
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