Research Projects

India's pig population has fallen by 12.03% since the last census, primarily due to high mortality rates of infectious diseases and lack of a suitable national program for controlling pig diseases. The two most economically important infectious diseases in India are African swine fever (ASF) and Classical swine fever (CSF). ASF is diagnosed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Real Time PCR, and detection of antibodies via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immunoblotting, or fluorescence antibody testing. CSF diagnosis is based on PCR identification of the agent and detection of antibodies using ELISA or a virus neutralisation test. Multiplex PCR techniques with high sensitivity and specificity for ASFV and CSFV detection have been established, but these procedures are time-consuming and require well-equipped laboratories and trained workers. The cost of ASF detection tests ranges from INR206 (US$2.78) to INR700 (US$9.46) per sample. A green synthesis nano-sensor-based diagnostic for on-field simultaneous detection of ASF and CSF antigens as early indicators of both infections is proposed. The project aims to develop a paper strip assay platform using less expensive green synthesis nanoparticles, simultaneous detection of ASF and CSF viral antigens in biological fluids as early biomarkers, and replacing commonly used methods such as multiplex PCR in terms of rapidity, user friendliness, economic viability, and equipment requirements.