Sites - Nicaragua

Institute:
The National Center for Diagnosis and Reference in Managua, Nicaragua carries out virological, serological, and molecular biology diagnostic studies of dengue virus and other pathogens of local importance. The Center’s virology laboratory is equipped with real-time PCR for processing of serum samples, antibody-based detection (ie ELISA), virus isolation, and PRNT. It serves as a partner for the Pediatric Dengue Vaccine Initiative’s clinical trial site in Managua and is recognized as a Center of Excellence for dengue research in Central America. It has developed an innovative system of bar code, GIS, and hand-held information technology to rapidly translate patient data from the field into a centralized computer system. Through partnerships with collaborators in the U.S., the Center’s investigators have been involved in proteomic and genomic studies to characterize host and viral gene expression.

Host Investigator:
Dr. Angel Balmaseda

UC Berkeley Investigator:
Dr. Eva Harris is a Professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases in the School of Public Health and Faculty Director of the Center for Global Public Health at UC Berkeley. She has developed a multidisciplinary approach to study the molecular virology, pathogenesis, and epidemiology of dengue, the most prevalent mosquito-borne viral disease in humans. Her field work focuses on laboratory-based and epidemiological studies of dengue in endemic Latin American countries, particularly in Nicaragua, where ongoing projects include clinical and biological studies of severe dengue, a pediatric cohort study of dengue and influenza transmission in Managua, and a project on evidence-based, community-derived interventions for prevention of dengue via control of its mosquito vector. She has also collaborated with investigators in the Department of Electrical Engineering at UC Berkeley to develop novel, rapid, low-cost diagnostic devices for point-of-care diagnosis of dengue and other infectious diseases.