In a new study, researchers have developed and begun using high-accuracy antibody testing to determine the magnitude of COVID-19 infection in Arkansas and inform the decisions of policymakers.
The research was conducted by the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)
As part of the research program, UAMS will collect blood samples from nearly 7,500 Arkansas adults and children through October.
By early August, a robotic-assisted immunoassay machine will enable processing of 2,500 samples per day for the workplace, school, and other community settings.
UAMS researchers are now processing only up to 180 samples per day by hand.
The effort is supported by $3.3 million in federal coronavirus aid that was then allocated by the Arkansas Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act Steering Committee created by Gov. Asa Hutchinson.
Unlike diagnostic tests, COVID-19 antibody testing looks back into the immune system’s history.
A positive antibody test means the person was exposed to the virus and developed antibodies against the virus.
It will give state leaders a good idea of how many Arkansans have been infected with the virus since it first came to the state, even if they did not become ill or have symptoms.
Seroprevalence is the proportion of people in a population whose blood serum tests positive for a particular disease.
There are two study components: a laboratory component and a statewide epidemiology component.
The team developed and validated the high-accuracy antibody test.
The researchers’ achievement inspired leaders across UAMS and Arkansas Children’s Hospital to come together in support of the statewide project.
The UAMS antibody test requires a small amount of blood, although more than a pinprick. Its validity testing shows it is not fooled by antibodies for other coronaviruses.
The team said the antibody testing will serve as a springboard for researchers to answer deeper questions about COVID-19 in other studies, such as:
How many antibodies are present when tested?
How robust is the immune response?
How much antibody is required to provide immunity?
How long does immunity last?
One researcher of the study is UAMS Chancellor Cam Patterson, M.D., MBA.
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