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Researchers have developed a mobile test using technology found in smartphones, and it could provide a virtually instantaneous way of diagnosing HIV. The test uses a drop of blood from a patient to produce result within 10 seconds.
The test uses surface acoustic wave SAW biochips, which are based on microelectronic components found in smartphones. The disposable quartz biochips are extremely fast because they do not require complex labelling, amplification or wash steps, and a pocket-sized control box reads out the SAW signal and displays results electronically.
Early detection of HIV is vital to help contain potential outbreaks, but existing tests require complex analysis equipment and long waiting times for results. The team first optimized SAW biochips and capture coatings to detect model HIV antibodies and recombinant antigens (anti-p24 and p24 respectively) exploiting small llama antibody technology.
This was then used to test real patient samples, using differential measurements, in order to achieve high specificity and sensitivity within seconds. The research opens up the potential of consumer electronics to reduce test waiting times, giving patients on the spot access to potentially life-saving treatment and supporting more timely public health interventions to prevent disease outbreaks.
Early diagnosis and access to antiretroviral treatment increases life expectancy, reduces infant mortality and prevents mother to child transmission in pregnant women.
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