A team of scientists at NYU Abu Dhabi has announced the development of a new paper-based diagnostic device. The breakthrough test can detect COVID-19 and other infectious diseases in under 10 minutes.

This innovation does not require sophisticated lab equipment or trained personnel. Instead, it uses a simple design to offer a fast, affordable, and portable screening tool.

The device, called the Radially Compartmentalized Paper Chip (RCP-Chip), was engineered by researchers at the Advanced Microfluidics and Microdevices Laboratory (AMMLab).

The RCP-Chip works with a single droplet of fluid and provides results through a visible color change. It detects even minute traces of viral genetic material.

Notably, it operates without electricity or special tools. It only needs mild heat around 65°C, similar to warm water.

The research findings were reported in the journal Advanced Sensor Research. The paper is titled Single-Layer Radially Compartmentalized Paper Chip (RCP-Chip) for Rapid Isothermal Multiplex Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Gene Targets.

• The study confirms the RCP-Chip’s ability to detect multiple gene targets.
• It is especially suited for use in low-resource environments.

NYUAD Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Bioengineering Mohammad A. Qasaimeh, the study’s senior author, revealed that the device is designed for real-world impact. He noted it can be adapted to detect other infectious diseases, enhancing its global health value.

NYUAD Research Assistant Pavithra Sukumar, co-first author of the study, said the portable test could improve outbreak response. She emphasized that it supports faster isolation, treatment, and control.

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