Low-Cost, Paper-Based Zika Test

May-12-16 A new paper-based test for the Zika virus could be used in the field to provide early detection—and early intervention.

The test was developed by an international team led by the Wyss Institute’s James Collins, and builds off an earlier test created to screen for Ebola. A synthetic, biomolecular sensor able to screen blood, urine or saliva samples is set into a paper disc. If the sensors detect the presence of the virus’s RNA sequence, they will change color within an hour, indicating a negative or positive result.

The test could also be adapted to detect other RNA-based viruses, including measles, SARS and West Nile fever.

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[GIZMAG.COM]
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