Diagnostic and automatic surveillance platform to identify RSV, Influenza A, and COVID-19 in real-time.
The respiratory disease diagnostic market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing prevalence of respiratory infections such as COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. The demand for rapid, accurate, and non-invasive diagnostic tools has surged, highlighting the need for innovative solutions like breath-based and smartphone-integrated tests. The market is further bolstered by advancements in molecular diagnostics, point-of-care testing, and home-based testing kits, which offer convenience and quick results. Regulatory approvals and substantial investment in research and development are paving the way for new technologies to enter the market, addressing the urgent need for effective, rapid diagnostics to combat respiratory diseases and prevent future pandemics.
Researchers at Emory have developed a smartphone-based virus test that uses DNA micromotors to attach to the virus's surface. Once the micromotors attach to the virus, they stop moving, indicating a positive or negative result. The Rolosense assay has been shown to be highly sensitive and is able to detect multiple viruses simultaneously, including COVID-19, RSV, and influenza A. The test can be applied toward breath condensate, saliva, or nasal swab samples. The assay can be applied in a point of care setting (doctor’s office) or more broadly using a home test.