Evaluating a Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Assay to Quantify/Semi-Quantify Hepatitis B Virus DNA Levels in Senegal

Muriel Vray of Institut Pasteur of Dakar in Senegal will evaluate a loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay (LAMP), a simple, robust and inexpensive nucleic acid amplification assay, to quantify/semi-quantify hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA levels in Senegal. In the first step, they will validate the assay in a reference laboratory in Dakar, compared with the reference standard PCR assay. In the second step, they will validate the assay in a decentralized context at a rural health center in Senegal. They will also evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the use of LAMP.