In a groundbreaking development, researchers have unveiled a novel method that combines confocal fluorescence microscopy with microfluidic laminar flow to swiftly and accurately detect nanoparticles and viruses, including the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein. This innovative approach, detailed in a study published in iScience, offers a game-changing alternative to traditional PCR methods, which can be slow and labor-intensive. The team, led by Prof. Dr. Eitan Lerner and Mrs. Paz Drori from the Hebrew University, have also developed a portable and affordable 3D-printed microscopy platform, Brick-MIC, described in a paper in Science Advances, making this technology widely accessible for clinical use and enhanced public health responses.
Overcoming PCR Limitations
Many current methods of virus detection rely on a complex procedure known as polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, which is highly accurate but can be slow and labor-intensive as well as requiring specialized laboratory equipment. Although less sensitive and less accurate, antigen-based tests can deliver results much faster.
To overcome these limitations, the team provides an innovative solution to tackle with confocal based flow virometry in which only specific single virus particles are detectable rapidly. The researchers realized these insights by using laminar flow in a microfluidic channel combined with fluorescence signals of free dye and labeled antibodies.
Increased Sensitivity and Specificity
Hydrodynamic focusing is a notable aspect of this new assay, allowing clinicians to detect viruses at the small concentrations that show up in clinical work. Testing of the approach with fluorescent beads and a range of viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein, confirmed its excellent detection accuracy and specificity.
Teaming with the research group Prof. Dr.Eran Zahavy from Israel Institute for Biological Research (IIBR) expanded their previous observations on a broader range of viruses that further underpin the effectiveness of their approach.
Mobile and Flexible Design
What is key with this innovation, though: it’s not only portable and user-friendly. With an inexpensive 3D-printed Brick-MIC setup, the researchers believe the technology can and should be integrated across more clinical settings. As individual aegis, this portable design keeps up with the needs of individually targeted healthcare by allowing rapid and accurate virus detection.
This method is hoped to be possible for personalized heath monitoring by rapidly and specifically finding a specific virus and engineered nanoparticle even on individual basis. This level of specificity in detecting a disease helps healthcare provide services to be more responsive to the individual needs of patients so that treatments are both more effective, and delivered immediately and appropriately.
