New Rapid Test Detects Deadly Infections in Just 15 Minutes

This small and easy-to-use device can detect diseases such as COVID-19, Ebola hemorrhagic fever, and Lyme disease quickly and accurately. It can be used in various settings — from city hospitals to remote rural clinics — according to a publication in ACS Nano journal.

How Does It Work?

The technology is based on gold nanoparticles coated with special molecules that detect proteins associated with infections. These nanoparticles also carry antibodies that bind to viral or bacterial proteins.

When a drop of blood is added, the nanoparticles react with infection-related proteins. If an infection is present, the particles settle at the bottom of the sample, and the blood becomes more transparent. The NasRED device then shines a light beam through the sample and measures how much light passes through — helping determine the presence of infection.

Advantages of the Technology

• Extremely sensitive — up to 3000 times more sensitive than traditional ELISA tests;
• Fast results — about 30 times faster than conventional methods;
• No complex sample preparation required;
• Affordable and portable — no expensive equipment or long staff training needed;
• Versatile — the same platform can be used to detect various diseases.

Future Potential

The team is now working to expand the technology beyond infectious diseases. They believe NasRED could also detect cancer biomarkers and proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease — offering a universal platform for early disease diagnosis.