A 2-Dollar test to detect Zika virus in Saliva
Scientists are working on new tools to help manage the outbreak. Current gold-standard tests to detect the virus require expensive lab equipment and trained personnel. Low-cost diagnostic methods have been reported but can’t detect low levels of the disease or don’t distinguish between Zika and similar viruses such as dengue.
So, a team of researchers has come up with a new 2 dollar-test that rapidly detects Zika virus in saliva within 40 minutes. Reported in ACS’ journal Analytical Chemistry, this test can accurately detect low levels of the virus in the saliva.
To ensure their system would be highly selective for Zika without confusing it with similar viruses, the researchers looked for and found a stretch of genetic code that is nearly identical for 19 different strains of the Zika virus infecting people in the Americas but not in other pathogens. Then, with materials costing $2 per test, they developed a diagnostic system, which only requires the addition of water to operate. If the Zika-specific genetic sequence is in a saliva sample, a dye within the system will turn blue within 40 minutes. The test even works if low levels of
the sequence are present.With Zika buzz bombing Brazil’s grandiose Summer Olympics plans and public health experts debating over WHO’s announcement of not postponing or moving Olympics due to Zika, this tool can surely be a sign of relief!
