An Argentine Scientific Breakthrough Against Dengue
On August 14, 2026, it was reported that researchers from the Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Rosario (IBR) are developing a rapid and economical test to detect dengue during the first days of infection. For our international readers, CONICET (National Scientific and Technical Research Council) is the main government agency fostering science and technology in Argentina, and Rosario is the country's third-largest city, a major hub for biotechnological research.
The initiative, led by researcher Elisa Bolatti, recently received support from the Williams Foundation and aims to become a locally produced, accessible tool for different levels of the public health system.
“Although there are very sensitive diagnostic methods like PCR, they require specialized infrastructure and trained personnel. Our goal is to generate a rapid, innovative, and economical test that can be used at different levels of the healthcare system to strengthen the country's diagnostic capacity,” Bolatti explained in an official statement.
Early Detection: The Key Lies in the NS1 Protein
The team's strategy focuses on detecting the NS1 protein, which circulates in high concentrations in the blood during the first days of infection. This protein is highly conserved among the four serotypes of dengue, making it an ideal marker for identifying the virus's presence.
The ability to perform diagnosis directly at the point of care—without relying on complex equipment—would improve clinical management of patients, prevent complications, and speed up epidemiological surveillance during outbreaks. The goal is for the tool to be used in emergency rooms, primary care centers, and territorial operations.
Aptamers: The Biotechnological Innovation
The project's innovative element is the use of aptamers as molecular sensors. These are synthetic molecules designed and selected in the laboratory to bind with great precision to specific targets. Unlike traditional antibodies, aptamers do not require biological systems or animals for their production, allowing for simpler, cheaper, scalable, and more stable manufacturing.
“This allows us to overcome many of the technological and cost limitations associated with conventional antibodies,” the researcher noted.
What Stage is the Project At?
Currently, the development is in an optimization stage. The next steps include producing the NS1 proteins corresponding to the four dengue serotypes and selecting specific aptamers. Then, these components will be integrated into a functional prototype that will be evaluated with clinical samples.
The team already has previous experience developing diagnostic tools for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and SARS-CoV-2, which supports the project's viability.
A Versatile Platform for Future Threats
Aptamer technology is extremely versatile. According to the researchers, the platform developed at the IBR could be quickly adapted to recognize other emerging viruses, giving it strategic value for regional public health.
The project brings together the work of CONICET, the National University of Rosario (UNR), the IBR, and the technology-based company DETx MOL S.A., aiming to connect excellent science with the concrete demands of the national healthcare system.
Dengue represents one of the main public health challenges in Argentina and South America, especially during the summer months. Having accessible, locally produced early diagnostic tools is a critical need, and this scientific breakthrough could mark a before and after in the fight against the disease.