Reference no: EM132766072

Noting Ryan's labored breath sounds and his previous lung issues, Dr. Connors admits Ryan to the hospital so he can be monitored until the lab results return. The analysis of the nasal wash reveals that Ryan has respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Doug and Stacy are scared by the diagnosis- Ryan's been through so much already. Dr. Connors tells them that premature babies like Ryan are at risk for acquiring RSV infection; it is actually very common. The Centers for Disease Control and Pre- vention (CDC) estimates that almost all children become infected with RSV before their second birthday. There is no specific treatment for RSV, but because of Ryan's medical history, Dr. Connors keeps Ryan in the hospital. Over the next couple of days, Ryan develops bronchiolitis (inflammation of the bronchi- oles). He is treated with supplemental oxygen and suctioning of mucus to help him breathe more easily. During the next 10 days, Ryan's condition progressively improves, and he returns home, fully recovered.

Q1: The laboratory test used to identify RSV in Ryan's nasal wash is based on detecting RSV antigen in the sample. Describe one approach to identifying antigens in a sample from a patient.

Q2: Even though RSV infection in infants is common, a vaccine does not currently exist. Imagine you are designing a recombinant vaccine for RSV--what viral components would you use in your vaccine? Justify your choice.