A multiplex surrogate virus neutralisation test (sVNT) developed in Singapore is now utilized in over 90 countries to detect antibodies against multiple viruses, including variants of Sars-CoV-2, Ebola, and henipaviruses.

One of the key advantages of the sVNT is that it does not require live viruses for testing; instead, it uses a harmless spike protein from the virus, significantly reducing infection risks.

Looking ahead, researchers aim to develop a more comprehensive test that can detect all pathogens on the World Health Organization's priority list for antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

The sVNT evolved from the cPass test, which was the first commercial tool to detect neutralising antibodies for Sars-CoV-2, addressing limitations with evolving variants.

The international adoption of the sVNT is evident, with institutions like the University of Oxford and the University of Melbourne employing the test for infectious disease research and surveillance.

High levels of neutralising antibodies detected by the sVNT indicate likely protection against future infections, aiding in the evaluation and formulation of vaccines.

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Singapore has bolstered its pandemic preparedness, launching a S$100 million Programme for Research in Epidemic Preparedness and Response in 2022 and establishing the Communicable Diseases Agency in April 2025.

The test, led by researchers Prof Wang Linfa from Duke-NUS Medical School and Dr Tan Chee Wah from NUS Medicine, not only assesses immunity levels but also aids in evaluating vaccine efficacy.

Additionally, the sVNT enhances contact tracing during epidemics by identifying previously infected individuals, which helps reveal transmission chains.

This initiative reflects a broader recognition of 'disease X', a term that signifies unknown pathogens that could lead to future global pandemics, underscoring the need for improved preparedness.

The development of the multiplex sVNT was supported by the Integrated Innovations in Infectious Diseases (I3D) grant funded by Singapore's National Medical Research Council.

Moreover, the test can be utilized in animal studies, such as tracking Sars-CoV-2 transmission to deer in the U.S., further demonstrating its versatility.