Fapon's HIV-P24: Enabling Precise and Early HIV Detection

As a result of global efforts to combat the AIDS epidemic, significant progress has been achieved worldwide. According to UNAIDS, while 39 million people still live with HIV globally, the number of new infections has declined by 38% to 1.3 million in 2022 compared to 2010. Despite these improvements, the battle against HIV persists, as only 86% of newly infected individuals are aware of their HIV status, and approximately 630,000 people worldwide have died from AIDS-related illnesses. The significance of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment in the ongoing fight remains paramount.

Detecting HIV Subtypes for Effective Diagnosis

HIV, known for its genetic variability, comprises of two main types: HIV-1, originating in the Congo Basin in Africa and causing 95% of global infections, and HIV-2, primarily found in West Africa with lower infectivity. This leads to diverse subtypes, numerous circulating recombinant forms (CRFs), and unique recombinant forms (URFs) globally, presenting challenges to the sensitivity and specificity of HIV testing. Therefore, developing diagnostic tests capable of detecting these variations is crucial for effectiveness.

Shortening Window Periods for Punctual Interventions

In addition to detecting various HIV strains, reducing diagnostic test window periods is crucial for timely treatment. The landscape of HIV testing has evolved significantly since the 1980s. Initially, individuals faced prolonged waiting periods, sometimes months, for detectable markers to appear. Advanced technologies now offer enhanced sensitivity, specificity, and shorter window periods through the latest generation test kits.

Notably, 4th generation test kits, detecting HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibodies along with the P24 antigen, are significantly advancing the detection window period to 2 to 3 weeks, enabling faster and more accurate diagnosis.

(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Laboratory Testing for the Diagnosis of HIV Infection: Updated Recommendations Published June 27, 2014)

Moreover, the 4th generation test kit with P24 antigen testing is recommended for diverse scenarios, such as early detection for infants under 18 months of age, shortening the window period for adults in acute and high-risk phases and individuals using self-test kits, and evaluating responses in those participating in HIV vaccine trials.

Fapon’s HIV-P24 Raw Material

Fapon’s HIV-P24 raw material in test kits exhibits outstanding sensitivity and specificity, comparable to global renowned brands. Capable of detecting major HIV strains worldwide, including common subtypes, our kits are tailored to meet specific requirements with the development of our QC panel.

The HIV subtypes detected by Fapon’s HIV-P24

Sensitivity Test for NIBSC panel

In comparison with HIV-P24 test kits from other world-leading brands, our pairing demonstrates proficiency in detecting all genotypes of HIV-1 and HIV-2, with a particular emphasis on 16/212 and 16/236, ensuring comprehensive detection. In addition, the specificity of Fapon’s HIV-P24 product demonstrates outstanding performance, with an overall specificity exceeding 99.8%.

As we pioneer advancements in HIV detection, Fapon Biotech is dedicated to delivering earlier, more accurate, convenient, and accessible diagnostics for all. For further details on our innovative and diverse product range, please contact us to get in touch. We look forward to discussing how our solutions can make a difference for you!

References

1.     About HIV testing. Available at: http://www.21171069.gov.hk/en/facts_figures/testing.html (Accessed: 29 November 2023).

2.     Akahome, P. (2021) HIV-1 subtypes, aidsmap.com. Available at: http://www.aidsmap.com/about-hiv/hiv-1-subtypes (Accessed: 29 November 2023).

3.     Antiretroviral therapy for HIV infection in infants and children: Towards universal access: Recommendations for a public health approach (no date) National Center for Biotechnology Information. Available at: http://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23741772/ (Accessed: 29 November 2023).

4.     Global HIV statistics - joint united nations programme on HIV/AIDS. Available at: http://www.unaids.org/sites/default/files/media_asset/UNAIDS_FactSheet_en.pdf (Accessed: 29 November 2023).

5.     Laboratory testing for the diagnosis of HIV infection : Updated recommendations, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Available at: http://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/23447#:~:text=The%20recommended%20algorithm%20is%20a,and%20HIV%2D1%20p24%20antigen. (Accessed: 29 November 2023).

6.     Robertson, D.L., Hahn, B.H. and Sharp, P.M. (no date a) Recombination in AIDS viruses - journal of molecular evolution, SpringerLink. Available at: http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF00163230 (Accessed: 29 November 2023).

7.     The evolution of HIV testing (no date a) ADLM (formerly AACC). Available at: http://www.myadlm.org/cln/articles/2017/september/the-evolution-of-hiv-testing (Accessed: 29 November 2023).

8.     VISR Working Group of Global HIV Vaccine Enterprise et al. (2015) HIV vaccine-induced sero-reactivity: A challenge for trial participants, researchers, and physicians, Vaccine. Available at: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4331207/ (Accessed: 29 November 2023).