Charmaine A. Lingdas

The University of the Philippines Manila (UPM) National Institutes of Health – Institute of Human Genetics (NIH–IHG) has introduced a groundbreaking technology aimed at predicting complications for leptospirosis. Senior Research Associate Rafael Joshua De Guzman presented this new development during the Philippine Pharma Healthcare Expo on February 15, 2024, highlighting its potential to significantly improve patient outcomes.

“Leptospirosis poses a significant health problem, especially during the rainy season in the Philippines, [where] floods are a common occurrence during typhoons or heavy rainfall, leading to a dramatic increase in diseases associated with floods, including leptospirosis,” De Guzman stated. “This disease is [also] a major concern in tropical regions. Our latest research indicates that more than 4,000 cases are recorded annually, with local data estimating an 11% mortality rate.”

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection commonly spread through water contaminated with animal urine, often presents itself through mild flu-like symptoms. However, about 5% of cases can progress to severe conditions such as Weil’s syndrome, which can lead to kidney failure and other serious complications, including lung hemorrhage.

“The current problem is that physicians cannot predict who will become severely affected by leptospirosis. If left untreated, the disease may lead to a 30% mortality rate. Worst of all, it affects people in the prime stage of their lives, aged 20 to 40. However, this can be prevented. Early recognition of complications can lead to more focused monitoring and initiation of preventive strategies.”

In response to these challenges, the IHG has developed a new molecular test to predict which patients are at risk of severe complications. This molecular test is supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

“We developed this kit called Molecular Detection of Complement Factor I and Alpha-Defensin Prognosticators for Leptospirosis. We offer a first-in-market technology that can predict the early onset of deadly complications of leptospirosis with high accuracy. This test measures proteins that target lung hemorrhage and kidney failure, allowing us to predict early on which patients need priority care,” explained De Guzman.

This technology involves the action of Complement Factor I (CF1) and Alpha-Defensin (DEFA) biomarkers, aiming to quantify, measure, and monitor human proteins in patients based on their risk of developing severe symptoms. CF1 monitors the occurrence of lung hemorrhage while DEFA monitors kidney failure. “Prevention is better than treatment. With this test, we can identify high-risk patients early and provide them with the necessary care, especially given our limited healthcare resources,” said De Guzman. He underscored who will benefit from the technology, emphasizing its importance for the government, hospitals, and doctors to prioritize patient care.

“Our platform currently uses qPCR, but we are looking to develop other platforms such as ELISA and lateral flow assays to commercialize and expand its reach.” 

The IHG has patented the CF1 and DEFA biomarker tests both locally and internationally. “We have a working prototype that has been validated in two independent studies. The next step is to register with the local FDA and seek international partners for further distribution,” De Guzman added.

He concluded his presentation with an invitation for collaboration. “We are looking for partners who can help us expand the reach of this technology to countries with a high burden of leptospirosis.”

The CFI technology was developed by Dr. Jose B. Nevado, Jr., NIH-IHG; Dr. Nina G. Gloriani, vaccine expert and former dean, College of Public Health (CPH); Dr. Jamie D. Trifalgar-Arches; Dr. Evalyn A. Roxas, Associate Professor and College Secretary, CPH; Dr. Catherine Lynn T. Silao, NIH-IHG; Dr. Maridel P. Borja, CPH; Dr. Regina P. Berba, Hospital Infection Control Unit (HICU), Philippine General Hospital; Dr. Sharon Yvette Angelina M. Villanueva, CPH; Dr. Manuel D. Yoro; Christian Deo T. Deguit, NIH-IHG; Aubrey Mae D. Lipa, NIH-IHG; and Reneez Aiyana G. Felix, NIH-IHG.

The DEFA1 technology was developed by Dr. Nevado, Dr. Gloriani, Dr. Borja, Dr. Roxas, Dr. Berba, and Dr. Silao.

As cited in a previous article (UPM Scientists Aim for Locally Produced Leptospirosis Vaccine Amidst 5-Year High in Cases – University of the Philippines Manila), Dr. Gloriani and Dr. Villanueva are also developing a vaccine targeting specific strains of the Leptospira bacteria. They are also actively seeking research and development partners to fund and support the critical clinical trials necessary for producing a locally-manufactured vaccine.

For inquiries regarding this technology, contact Dr. Jose V. Nevado Jr., MD, PhD, Research Arm Head, Molecular Research and Diagnostic Unit, Institute of Human Genetics, National Institutes of Health, UP Manila. Tel.: (632) 5310-5731 loc 113 Email: jbnevado1@up.edu.ph