A paper-based diagnostic device can detect COVID-19 and other infectious diseases in under 10 minutes, without the need for sophisticated lab equipment or trained personnel.
The breakthrough device detects even minute traces of viral genetic material using a droplet of fluid and a visible color change. It operates without electricity or special equipment, needing just a source of mild heat at around 65 °C, similar to the temperature of warm water. Its compact design, engineered from a single sheet of paper, integrates miniature components such as sample ports and vents, fluidic resistors, and reaction chambers preloaded with primers, enzymes, and gold nanoparticles.
The device supports multiplex testing, meaning it can detect several gene targets in a single run. This improves efficiency while reducing sample volume and cost. Its flexible design can be adapted to detect various pathogens (bacteria, viruses, etc.), across sample types such as saliva, blood, and environmental sources. (Image credit: NYU Abu Dhabi)
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