#C16928: Aptamer-based Electrochemical Virus Sensor
Inventor(s): Yuxuan Wang, Chao Wang, Hongpen Jia, Mukund Madhav Goyal
Unmet Need
Tests for viral infections have made a statement return to the forefront of medical technology research in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has claimed the lives of 4,361,996 individuals globally. The global market for at-home testing kits is forecasted to have a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% and is expected to reach $8.1bn by 2028. The current gold standard for at-home testing of viral infections (namely SARS-CoV-2 viruses) is by collection of saliva or nasal mucus to be sent to a diagnostic lab for analysis by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). PCR tests have the benefit of detecting very small quantities of viral particles, but the tradeoff is a longer processing time.
With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, obtaining test results faster would be advantageous in helping patients take proactive measures to self-quarantine and limit their spread if they are diagnosed as positive for COVID-19. Therefore, there is a strong need for new and improved forms of at-home testing kits for SARS-CoV-2 infections in order to address the current limitations of marketed self-testing kits.
Technology Overview
Johns Hopkins researchers have developed an aptamer-based electrochemical virus sensor that is capable of detecting SARS-CoV-2 infection in a patient at a lower limit of detection that surpasses existing systems. The technology is portable, scalable, and reagent-free, making it amenable for at-home self-testing kits for COVID-19 and other potential viral infections. Algorithms powered by artificial intelligence are also being developed to build up sensor networks for early warning reporting of epidemic or pandemic outbreaks. Additionally, the sensor is capable of detecting aerosolized virus particles, expanding the opportunity to pre-screen for viral exposure.
Stage of Development
Proof of concept testing available.
Publication
N/A
