The Need: Tick-borne zoonosis caused by Ehrlichia chaffeensis is a growing concern, leading to a febrile disease that can be fatal, especially in immunocompromised and elderly individuals. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment with doxycycline are crucial to prevent severe complications. However, the current diagnostic and preventive methods are insufficient, highlighting the need for improved technologies to combat Ehrlichiosis and protect both humans and animals.

The Technology: A groundbreaking technology has been developed based on the entry triggering protein of Ehrlichia (EtpE). EtpE, particularly its conserved C-terminal region (EtpE-C), plays a critical role in Ehrlichia binding, entry, and infection of various host cell types. This technology leverages EtpE to develop vaccines, diagnostics, and cell delivery polypeptides, providing a comprehensive solution to combat Ehrlichiosis.

Commercial Applications: The technology's applications include, but are not limited to:

• Vaccines: The EtpE-based vaccines offer enhanced protection against Ehrlichia sp. infections in humans and various animals, such as canines, felines, bovines, ovines, and caprines.
• Diagnostics: The method of assaying for antibodies that specifically bind EtpE-N allows for early and accurate diagnosis of Ehrlichiosis in both humans and animals.
• Treatment Monitoring: Monitoring antibody levels that specifically bind EtpE-C allows for effective tracking of treatment progress and adjustment of therapeutic approaches if necessary.
• Gene and Drug Delivery: Conjugating therapeutic or diagnostic agents to EtpE-C enables targeted and efficient delivery to cells expressing DNase X, including leukocytes, endothelial cells, kidney cells, heart cells, brain cells, and placental cells.

Benefits/Advantages: The technology offers several benefits and advantages that set it apart from existing methods:

• Enhanced Protection: EtpE-based vaccines provide a superior immune response, effectively safeguarding against multiple species of Ehrlichia, including Ehrlichia chaffeensis, Ehrlichia canis, and Ehrlichia ruminantium.
• Pan-Diagnostic Capability: The diagnostic method based on EtpE-N allows for cross-reactivity, enabling the detection of various Ehrlichia sp. infections with a single test.
• Early Detection and Effective Treatment: The technology's diagnostic and treatment monitoring capabilities enable early detection and timely adjustments, leading to improved treatment efficacy.
• Targeted Delivery: Conjugation of therapeutic or diagnostic agents to EtpE-C allows for precise and efficient delivery to specific cells expressing DNase X, optimizing treatment outcomes.
• Veterinary and Human Applications: The technology's versatility makes it suitable for both veterinary and human applications, addressing the need for improved diagnostics and vaccines in both areas.

In conclusion, the innovative EtpE-based technology represents a significant advancement in combating Ehrlichiosis, offering enhanced protection, early detection, and targeted delivery capabilities. Its potential applications in both veterinary and human settings make it a game-changer in addressing the commercial need for improved Ehrlichia-related technologies.