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 hp
Sign In
Advertise with Us
LGC Clinical Diagnostics

Download Mobile App




New Quantitative Testing System for Coronavirus Detection Could Also Diagnose Other Viral Illnesses

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 25 Sep 2024
Print article
Image: The Express Biochecker and measurement results of N protein concentrations for novel coronavirus (CoV-2, yellow) and a different coronavirus (229E, blue) (Photo courtesy of Hiroshi Yabu)
Image: The Express Biochecker and measurement results of N protein concentrations for novel coronavirus (CoV-2, yellow) and a different coronavirus (229E, blue) (Photo courtesy of Hiroshi Yabu)

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role of disease testing. Over the past few years, most people have undergone PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) or ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) tests. However, these methods have limitations, requiring large sample volumes, complex procedures, and even presenting risks of exposing testers to the virus. Now, a team of researchers has developed a new quantitative testing system that offers a simpler, faster, and more cost-effective way to detect the coronavirus N protein. This advanced microfluidic technology-based system is not limited to coronavirus detection and is expected to be applicable to other viral illnesses such as influenza and hepatitis in the future.

This novel immunoassay system called the "Express Biochecker" was developed by scientists at Tohoku University (Sendai, Japan) and is based on Janus particles. These particles, named after the two-faced Roman god Janus, feature two distinct sides: one coated with a fluorescent dye and the other with magnetic particles and antibodies. These particles are designed to specifically bind to target antigens, such as viral proteins, and are used with antibody-immobilized microfluidic devices for precise measurement.

The versatility of this system is a major advantage. It not only enables the detection of viruses in various diseases but also has the potential to be adapted for measuring other biomarkers linked to different health conditions. This adaptability could lead to new opportunities in medical diagnostics. Future research will aim to extend the system's capabilities to detect additional disease markers. The findings were detailed in the journal Langmuir.

Related Links:
Tohoku University

Gold Member
Serological Pipet Controller
PIPETBOY GENIUS
New
Gold Member
Chagas Disease Test
CHAGAS Cassette
New
Gold Member
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Test
b-hCG Cassette
New
Gold Member
Veterinary Hematology Analyzer
Exigo H400

Print article

Channels

Immunology

view channel
Image: Example image of the high-throughput microscopy method used in the study, showing immune cells stained with different fluorescence markers (Photo courtesy of Felix Kartnig/CeMM, MedUni Vienna)

Cutting-Edge Microscopy Technology Enables Tailored Rheumatology Therapies

Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common inflammatory joint disorder, with women three times as likely to suffer from the condition as men. Treatment advances made over the past decades have led to the... Read more

Microbiology

view channel
Image: RNA sequencing directly from whole blood aims to expand access to LRTI testing (Photo courtesy of CARB-X)

Novel Test to Diagnose Bacterial Pneumonia Directly from Whole Blood

Pneumonia and lower-respiratory-tract infections (LRTIs) are among the top causes of illness and death globally, particularly in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and immunocompromised... Read more

Pathology

view channel
Image: The new method uses DNA sequencing to measure metabolites (Photo courtesy of 123RF)

New Metabolite Detection Method Using DNA Sequencing Could Transform Diagnostics

Metabolites play a vital role as biomarkers that provide insights into our health, and when their levels go awry, it can lead to diseases such as diabetes and phenylketonuria. Quantifying metabolites remains... Read more
Copyright © 2000-2025 Globetech Media. All rights reserved.