Grant Aims to Revolutionize Typhoid Diagnosis
Chembio Diagnostic Systems, Inc., a U.S.-based subsidiary of the French diagnostics group Biosynex, has been awarded a $1.8 million grant from CARB-X (Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Biopharmaceutical Accelerator). The funding, announced on February 5-6, 2026, is designated for the development of a rapid, point-of-care (POC) diagnostic test for acute typhoid fever. This project underscores a global effort to improve diagnostic capabilities and address the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Addressing a Critical Global Health Challenge
Typhoid fever, caused by the bacterium Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (S. Typhi), remains a significant public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The disease is estimated to affect between 11 million and 21 million people annually, leading to approximately 128,000 to 161,000 deaths worldwide. It is typically spread through the consumption of contaminated food or water. Current diagnostic methods often present limitations in terms of speed and accuracy, complicating timely treatment and contributing to the inappropriate use of antibiotics, which fuels AMR.
Innovative Diagnostic Technology
The new diagnostic test will leverage Chembio's proprietary DPP® (Dual Path Platform) technology. It is designed to detect IgA antibodies, which are associated with acute S. Typhi infection, offering a potentially more accurate identification of active cases compared to existing rapid tests. The test will be capable of using fingerstick whole blood, serum, or plasma samples and is expected to deliver results within minutes when used with the portable DPP® Micro Reader. Richard Alm, Interim Chief of Research & Development at CARB-X, highlighted the potential impact, stating that 'A rapid, fingerstick-based test that delivers reliable results at the point of care could significantly improve how typhoid fever is diagnosed in low- and middle-income countries, where access to laboratory infrastructure is often limited'.
CARB-X's Role in Fighting AMR
CARB-X is a global non-profit partnership led by Boston University, dedicated to supporting early-stage research and development to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Since its inception in 2016, CARB-X has funded 122 projects aimed at preventing, treating, and diagnosing antibiotic-resistant infections. This grant to Chembio is part of CARB-X's broader strategy to invest in innovative solutions for high-burden infectious syndromes and dangerous resistant pathogens. Larry Abensur, President of Biosynex, emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that 'Rapid detection of high-impact infectious diseases remains central to Biosynex's mission'.
5 Comments
Donatello
A diagnostic doesn't fix contaminated water. This is just a band-aid.
Leonardo
Fantastic news! This rapid test will save so many lives in vulnerable communities.
Donatello
Getting it to remote villages will be the real challenge, not the test itself.
Michelangelo
Having a faster way to diagnose typhoid is undeniably beneficial, especially in areas with limited lab access. Still, without addressing underlying issues of hygiene and access to safe food, the cycle of infection will continue.
Donatello
It's commendable that CARB-X is funding solutions to combat AMR through better diagnostics. However, the root causes of typhoid, like poor sanitation, also need massive investment to truly eradicate the disease.