We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. To learn more, click here. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies. Cookie Policy.

Features Partner Sites Information LinkXpress
Sign In
Advertise with Us
PURITAN MEDICAL

Download Mobile App





Low-Cost, Easy-to-Use Lab-on-Paper SARS-CoV-2 Diagnostic Test Provides Accurate Results within an Hour

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 21 Jun 2021
Print article
Image: Low-Cost, Easy-To-Use Lab-on-Paper SARS-CoV-2 Diagnostic Test Provides Accurate Results within an Hour (Photo courtesy of University of Connecticut)
Image: Low-Cost, Easy-To-Use Lab-on-Paper SARS-CoV-2 Diagnostic Test Provides Accurate Results within an Hour (Photo courtesy of University of Connecticut)
Researchers have invented an easy-to-use, affordable lab-on-paper diagnostic technology for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 infection, that provides accurate results within an hour.

The device developed by researchers at University of Connecticut (Mansfield, CT, USA) uses a specialized kind of paper material to detect for two SARS-CoV-2 genes - the spike (S) and nucleoprotein (N) genes. The clinical samples validated these genes as good candidates for diagnostic tests because they are highly conserved. This means they are so essential to the virus they are likely found in all variants. By testing two genes rather than one, the test is more accurate.

This point-of-care test can be performed by any health care professional, making it ideal for settings like community health centers. The simple, low-cost device provides a reliable result within an hour. Patients provide a sample from a nasal swap. Then the practitioner uses a commercially available kit to purify the nucleic acid in the sample. This removes any impurities that could interfere with the accuracy of the test. After about 15 minutes, the sample can be transferred to a device that uses CRISPR technology to detect the SARS-CoV-2 genes. CRISPR is a gene-editing technology that can alter an organism’s genome by targeting and cutting specific DNA or RNA segments.

As a diagnostic tool, CRISPR locates the genes of interest, in this case the S and N genes, and cut them. This cut produces an observable signal, which on the device is fluorescence filling in on the paper to indicate a positive result. In addition to the two SARS-CoV-2 genes, the device also tests for a “housekeeping” gene known as the RNase P (RP) gene. The presence of this gene lets the practitioner know they got a high-quality sample that will generate a reliable result. The device is on a cellulose-based paper membrane which is hydrophilic, meaning it can transport the liquid solution that contains the nucleic acid. This is a great advantage to practitioners as the test runs automatically after they load the sample. The paper is also formulated so that it does not interfere with the biochemical reactions that need to happen to select for the genes of interest. If there is interference, the test could produce a false signal. This technology can be applied for diagnosing other pathogens such as HIV, influenza viruses or high-risk HPV by modifying which genes it selects for.

“We took advantage of the high sensitivity and specificity of CRISPR technology,” said Changchun Liu, associate professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering, who invented the diagnostic technology. “We want to continue to explore this technology and expand it for the detection of other pathogens.”

Related Links:
University of Connecticut

Platinum Member
COVID-19 Rapid Test
OSOM COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test
Specimen Collection & Transport
Complement 3 (C3) Test
GPP-100 C3 Kit
Gold Member
SARS-CoV-2 Test
One Step SARS-CoV-2 Nucleic Acid Detection Kit (P761H)

Print article

Channels

Clinical Chemistry

view channel
Image: Reaching speeds up to 6,000 RPM, this centrifuge forms the basis for a new type of inexpensive, POC biomedical test (Photo courtesy of Duke University)

POC Biomedical Test Spins Water Droplet Using Sound Waves for Cancer Detection

Exosomes, tiny cellular bioparticles carrying a specific set of proteins, lipids, and genetic materials, play a crucial role in cell communication and hold promise for non-invasive diagnostics.... Read more

Molecular Diagnostics

view channel
Image: MOF materials efficiently enrich cfDNA and cfRNA in blood through simple operational process (Photo courtesy of Science China Press)

Blood Circulating Nucleic Acid Enrichment Technique Enables Non-Invasive Liver Cancer Diagnosis

The ability to diagnose diseases early can significantly enhance the effectiveness of clinical treatments and improve survival rates. One promising approach for non-invasive early diagnosis is the use... Read more

Hematology

view channel
Image: The low-cost portable device rapidly identifies chemotherapy patients at risk of sepsis (Photo courtesy of 52North Health)

POC Finger-Prick Blood Test Determines Risk of Neutropenic Sepsis in Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy

Neutropenia, a decrease in neutrophils (a type of white blood cell crucial for fighting infections), is a frequent side effect of certain cancer treatments. This condition elevates the risk of infections,... Read more

Pathology

view channel
Image: The OvaCis Rapid Test discriminates benign from malignant epithelial ovarian cysts (Photo courtesy of INEX)

Intra-Operative POC Device Distinguishes Between Benign and Malignant Ovarian Cysts within 15 Minutes

Ovarian cysts represent a significant health issue for women globally, with up to 10% experiencing this condition at some point in their lives. These cysts form when fluid collects within a thin membrane... Read more
Copyright © 2000-2024 Globetech Media. All rights reserved.