Development of a Field-Deployable eDNA-LAMP Assay for Rapid Detection of Schistosoma Species

Schistosomiasis remains one of Africa’s most important neglected tropical diseases, affecting both humans and livestock. Current surveillance methods rely on laboratory-based diagnostics or invasive sampling of infected hosts, which are often expensive, time-consuming, and unsuitable for rapid field surveillance. As climate change and environmental changes continue to expand the distribution of freshwater snails that transmit schistosomiasis, there is an urgent need for innovative tools that enable early detection of parasite transmission.

This project aims to develop a portable environmental DNA (eDNA)-LAMP diagnostic platform capable of detecting Schistosoma DNA directly from freshwater sources without the need to collect infected humans, animals, or snails. The assay will be integrated with a nanoparticle-based biosensor to provide rapid visual or electrochemical results under field conditions. The technology will also be evaluated for its ability to detect emerging hybrid Schistosoma species, which pose an increasing One Health concern in Africa.

Field validation will be conducted in schistosomiasis-endemic regions of South Africa, with additional collaboration in Malawi to strengthen regional surveillance and evaluate hybrid parasites. Beyond developing an innovative diagnostic tool, the project will build regional capacity by training postgraduate students and researchers in molecular diagnostics, environmental surveillance and nanotechnology. The expected outcomes include a validated field-deployable diagnostic device, a reference sequence library of Schistosoma species and hybrids, strengthened cross-border surveillance capacity, and evidence to support targeted schistosomiasis control programmes. Ultimately, this project seeks to transform environmental surveillance by providing a rapid, non-invasive and affordable diagnostic platform that contributes to improved disease prevention across Africa.