DVD Technology-Based System Quickly and Inexpensively Detects SARS-CoV-2 Antigens and Specific Antibodies

A new DVD technology-based system quickly and inexpensively detects SARS-CoV-2 antigens and specific antibodies.

Researchers from the Polytechnic University of Valencia (Valencia, Spain) have developed a new system at laboratory scale that allows a rapid, cheap and effective detection of COVID-19. The system consists of a biosensor based on DVD technologies, that detects specific antibodies (G, M and A) and SARS-CoV-2 antigens - differentiating them to those of influenza - in a safe way, in less than 30 minutes, by analyzing serum or saliva samples. The price of the test is estimated at less than two Euros.

Called COMBO-SARS-CoV-2, the system can analyze up to a total of six serum and saliva samples simultaneously, determining type G, M and A antibodies and virus-specific antigens in less than half an hour. When a patient tests positive, the serological and/or saliva sample generates an optical signal that allows the identification of individuals who have suffered or are suffering the infection and establishes the concentration of the specific biomarkers. The COMBO-SARS-CoV-2 system can also be applied to detect other agents with infective capacity such as influenza viruses, adenoviruses and respiratory syncytial virus.

“The developed system will allow a rapid and automated viral diagnosis, at a much lower cost than the kits currently in use. Furthermore, these biosensors will enable a practical and efficient monitoring of the level of neutralizing antibodies once the vaccine is ready,” said Sergi Morais, Professor in the Department of Chemistry.

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Polytechnic University of Valencia