One second COVID test

“Researchers at the University of Florida and the National Chiao Tung University in Taiwan have developed a microfluidic device that can detect the SARS‑CoV‑2 spike protein in a saliva sample within one second. The electrochemical device employs antibodies against the spike protein to detect the virus, and could allow for ultra-rapid COVID-19 testing. . . .   Viral detection occurs on a gold electrode studded with antibodies against the viral spike protein, which can be loaded with a sample, such as saliva. Spike protein binding to the electrode will change the electrical charge that runs through it, allowing the device to detect the virus. The entire electrode is included in a single-use test strip that a user connects to handset to perform the analysis.”    See the device diagram.   MORE

Image Credit:   MedGadget.com, University of Florida and National Chiao Tung University