8-2021-1706

Ultrafast One-Minute Electronic Detection of SARS-CoV-2

Since its emergence in December 2019, SARS-CoV-2 has led to a global pandemic, resulting in over 6.5 million deaths as of October 2022. The rapid and accurate detection of this virus is crucial for controlling its spread and managing public health responses. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as PCR testing, while effective, often require specialized equipment, trained personnel, and can take several hours to yield results. This creates a significant gap in timely diagnosis, especially in resource-limited settings or during surges in infection rates.

Unmet Need
The ongoing challenges in COVID-19 testing highlight the need for rapid, user-friendly, and cost-effective diagnostic solutions. Current testing methods can be cumbersome, requiring laboratory infrastructure and extensive processing times. As the world continues to navigate the pandemic, there is an urgent demand for point-of-care (POC) testing technologies that can deliver results within minutes, enabling quicker isolation of infected individuals and more effective public health interventions. Additionally, the ability to test using non-invasive samples, such as saliva, can enhance accessibility and compliance among the population.

Our Technology
Our innovative technology leverages electrochemical biosensors to detect the enzymatic activity of the 3CLpro protease, a specific biomarker of active SARS-CoV-2 infection, directly from untreated saliva samples. Utilizing a carbon paper electrode with a high surface area, the sensor operates on a simple principle: the enzymatic hydrolysis of a substrate leads to a measurable change in the electrochemical signal. This method allows for the detection of viral presence within just one minute, providing a rapid and reliable diagnostic tool. The technology is designed to meet the ASSURED criteria set by the WHO, ensuring it is affordable, sensitive, specific, user-friendly, rapid, robust, and deliverable to end-users.

Potential Markets
The potential markets for this technology are vast and varied. Primarily, it can be deployed in healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and urgent care facilities, to facilitate rapid testing and immediate decision-making. Additionally, it holds promise for use in public health initiatives, such as mass screening at airports, schools, and workplaces, where quick identification of infections is critical. Beyond COVID-19, the technology can be adapted for the detection of other viral infections, expanding its applicability in the field of infectious disease diagnostics. Furthermore, the growing trend towards at-home testing solutions positions this technology favorably in the consumer market, catering to individuals seeking convenient and timely health assessments.
In summary, our ultrafast electronic detection technology addresses a critical unmet need in the fight against SARS-CoV-2, offering a rapid, effective, and accessible solution for viral detection that can significantly enhance public health responses.

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