Lateral flow immunoassay detects SARS-CoV-2 specific IgM and IgG antibodies and is the currently used complementary tool to RT-PCR tests. However, it involves drawing blood sample, which is painful for the examinees, and also poses the risk of infection. To address these challenges, scientists from Tokyo have now developed a novel patch sensor method for COVID-19 antibodies detection by integrating biodegradable porous microneedles and a new immunochromatographic biosensor (Figure 1). This patch can be applied to the area with less body hair, like the anterior of the forearm. This device facilitates the extraction of SARS-CoV-2-specific IgM and IgG antibodies from dermal interstitial fluid (ISF) instead of blood.
In addition, the antibodies can be detected colorimetrically on-site within three minutes. Figure 1. Components of the detection device and their functions. Benefits:…
