Monkeypox virus A29L antigen
The Monkeypox virus A29L antigen is a surface protein linked to the monkeypox virus (Mpox), a zoonotic virus that can spread from animals to humans and between people. Detecting the A29L antigen in a sample signals an active infection, as antigens are usually present during the early symptomatic stage of the illness.
Description
It is a viral surface protein that plays a role in the structure of the monkeypox virus and is used as a biomarker to detect an active Mpox infection.
A positive result means that monkeypox virus proteins were detected in the sample, indicating a current or recent infection.
Yes, because antigens are typically detectable soon after symptoms begin, A29L antigen testing can detect infection during the early, contagious stage.
Antigen testing detects the virus itself (current infection), while antibody tests detect the body’s immune response (past or ongoing infection).
