How many viruses are there?
A biosensor has been created that detects a dangerous level of coronavirus in the air
Spanish scientists from the Polytechnic University of Valencia have developed a device for direct detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the air. The development is reported on the website of the Association of Universities of Valencia RUVID (Researchers develop high-sensitivity system to detect SARS-COV-2 in the air).
The system is based on a highly sensitive biosensor that continuously monitors the presence of SARS-CoV-2 viral proteins in environmental aerosols.
"Preventive control strategies should take into account the spread of the virus through aerosols to effectively mitigate the effects of coronavirus," one of the authors of the study, Professor Angel Maquieira, director of the Institute of Molecular Recognition and Technological Development of the Polytechnic University of Valencia (IDM–UPV), is quoted in the press release of the association. "The biosensor uses specific antibodies that can detect the SARS–CoV-2 virus in the air."
For preliminary tests of the device, scientists have created virus-like particles (VLP). These viral membrane particles mimic the virus, but do not contain its genome, that is, they are safe from the point of view of the spread of the disease.
Specifically, SARS-CoV-2 VLPs include four structural proteins of the virus: spike protein (S), wrapped protein (E), membrane protein (M) and nucleocapsid protein (N), that is, all elements of the virus structure that allow the immune system to recognize it.
Detecting a viral charge in the air at a level that may be harmful to human health, the biosensor gives a warning signal.
"This is a very promising development," says Sergi Morais, another author of the study from IDM-UPV. "It can be used as a warning and control system to prevent COVID–19 infection without PCR tests."
The system is currently being tested at the Main University Hospital in the city of Castello.
"The results of the study will allow us to develop proposals to reduce the likelihood of infection in the interior of the hospital," said the head of the hospital, Mario Carballido Fernandez. – In addition, it should help in the creation of new security controls for secondary medical care centers, in order to reduce the risk of transmission of infection among the population. With the arrival of winter, it is necessary to ensure that enclosed spaces are safe."
The IDM-UPV biosensor is characterized by ease of use, low cost and versatility. The authors note that currently there are no analogues on the market – devices for direct measurement of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the atmosphere.
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