James Collins, a synthetic biologist at Boston University, claims that he has created a more efficient alternative to the present inexpensive paper-based diagnostic tests. It utilizes an adaptation of a lab method known as a "cell free system," where the fundamental processes of a cell are performed in a test tube. By implementing this onto porous paper and applying enzymes, special genes can be activated when a matching DNA or RNA strand is detected. In the case of ebola, which contains an RNA in its genome, placing bits of the ebola RNA onto these paper strips resulted in the activation of the protein production, staining the paper purple within an hour.
This invention could not come at a better time, with the growing panic and worry surrounding the issue of ebola. To have an efficient, relatively quick and - most of - extremely inexpensive (the cost per strip ranges from 4 to 65 cents) diagnostic test can only serve to better serve the community. The next step, besides the standard lab improvements and FDA testing, would be to see how this method of diagnostic testing can be expanded to more diseases, perhaps cancer (especially hard-to-detect ones). Overall, this is a really exciting innovation.
Hey Allen, great post. I've noticed this is the second post you've made that relates to paper. The first was on circuits and now this one on diagnostic tests. Although I do agree it would a more efficient, quicker, process wouldn't you run a huge risk of losing or damaging your tests?
ReplyDeleteDoes this work for all types of cells?
ReplyDeleteI too am wondering how reliable a paper test is. Also can this be turned into a user friendly product that people can test at home?
ReplyDelete