Revolutionizing Diagnostics: Rapid Paper-Based Testing

Fast and Affordable: Paper-Based Diagnostics

Scientists conducting research in the United Arab Emirates, in an academic setting in Dubai, have developed a revolutionary paper-based device that can detect infectious diseases in as little as 10 minutes. Named the Radially Compartmentalised Paper Chip (RCP‑Chip), this technology provides a fast, inexpensive, and portable solution for on-the-spot screenings, particularly in areas without access to sophisticated laboratory conditions or skilled personnel.

Inspiration During the Covid Era

During the early stages of the pandemic, there was a significant demand for tests that could quickly and easily indicate infection. The RCP‑Chip aims to fulfill this need through its development. The device works by using paper discs with sample patterns and is compatible with a minimal amount of reagents and sample, making it ideal for low-resource environments.

Versatile Use: Viruses, Bacteria, Hormones

Although primarily designed for Covid‑19 samples, the device can be easily adapted for other viruses or bacteria, such as chickenpox, dengue, and malaria. But the benefits of the method go beyond this:

Hormones – Certain variables can indicate level differences as quickly as genes.

Metabolites – Signals generated by metabolic processes can also be measured.

This versatility makes it unique: a single device can be employed for various purposes.

Operating Principle

The device's operation is simple and quick:

1. Sampling – Using saliva, avoiding the unpleasant swab method.

2. Reagent use – A small amount of material is needed.

3. Temperature – Requires about 60°C, which can be provided by a portable hotplate or a simple oven.

4. Result – Diagnosis is readable in less than 10 minutes.

These advantages allow the device to be mobilized and quickly delivered to necessary sites.

Development and Adaptation

The team worked on the development for about two years – access to labs was restricted during the pandemic – but after the completion of the design phase, they managed to move on to the experimental phase and begin testing.

Currently, a patent process is underway, and a startup is working to bring this technology to market. Several biotech companies have shown interest in further developing the device and applying it for various purposes.

Significance: Rapid On-Site Response

If the RCP‑Chip successfully reaches the market, it will become an additional tool available for on-site pandemic diagnostics. Faster isolation, more effective treatment, and better epidemic control can be achieved:

Frequent tests with immediate results.

Easily transportable, usable in field locations.

Low cost – an economical solution even in less affluent regions.

Summary

Developed in the United Arab Emirates, the RCP‑Chip is a paper-based, portable, rapid diagnostic method that can indicate viral and bacterial infections in as little as 10 minutes. It can be flexibly adapted for examining numerous diseases, providing a simple, cheap, mobile laboratory environment. The ongoing patenting and market development within the startup show promising potential for how this could become a real advantage in everyday and emergency healthcare applications. The widespread adoption of this device could become a new milestone in global pandemic management.

(Source of the article: Communique from New York University Abu Dhabi scientists.)