A revolutionary paper-based diagnostic device developed by NYU Abu Dhabi researchers can detect COVID-19 and other infectious diseases in under 10 minutes, promising a significant leap in global health.
In a groundbreaking development, a team of scientists at NYU Abu Dhabi has created an innovative paper-based diagnostic device that promises to revolutionize the detection of infectious diseases, including COVID-19. Dubbed the Radially Compartmentalized Paper Chip (RCP-Chip), this device can diagnose multiple pathogens in under 10 minutes without requiring sophisticated lab equipment or specialized personnel.
Engineered at the university’s Advanced Microfluidics and Microdevices Laboratory (AMMLab), the RCP-Chip is a potent solution for on-site screening, notably in regions lacking advanced medical infrastructure.
This innovation emerged during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic when access to rapid and reliable testing became critically urgent.
Game-Changing Technology
The RCP-Chip harnesses simple yet highly effective technology. It can detect even minimal traces of viral genetic material using just a droplet of fluid, resulting in an observable color change.
The device functions without electricity or sophisticated equipment, relying only on a mild heat source around 65°C, akin to warm water.
Comprising a single sheet of paper, the chip consists of intricate components, including sample ports, vents, fluidic resistors and reaction chambers pre-filled with necessary primers, enzymes and gold nanoparticles.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, our goal was to create something fast, affordable, and easy to use, especially in areas where access to lab facilities is limited,” senior author Mohammad A. Qasaimeh, an associate professor of mechanical engineering and bioengineering at NYUAD, said in a news release. “The RCP-Chip is designed for real-world impact. It can be reconfigured to detect other infectious diseases, making it a powerful tool for global health.”
Efficiency and Adaptability
The research, published in the journal Advanced Sensor Research, showcases the chip’s capability to conduct multiplex testing. This means it can simultaneously detect several gene targets in one run, thereby enhancing efficiency while lowering costs and sample volume.
The device’s design can be tailored to identify various pathogens across different sample types, including saliva, blood and environmental sources.
“This is a fast, affordable, lab-free test that detects multiple gene targets in under 10 minutes,” added co-first author Pavithra Sukumar, an NYUAD research assistant. “What makes it truly impactful is its real-world potential. This portable test could significantly improve outbreak response by enabling faster isolation, treatment and control.”
Future Directions
Moving forward, the research team plans to extend the chip’s capabilities further, including enhancing its plasmonic detection for more sensitive results and integrating smartphone connectivity for real-time data sharing and outbreak tracking.
Source: NYU Abu Dhabi