Scientists have developed a biosensor that detects a dangerous level of coronavirus in the air

The system analyzes the air quality and allows you to detect the virus in rooms: houses, transport, public institutions, and so on. Now the prototype is being tested as part of a study in a hospital. The system was developed by a team of researchers from the Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV) and the University of Valencia (UV) in Italy. They have designed a highly sensitive biosensor that continuously monitors the concentration of SARS-CoV-2 in environmental aerosols and detects dangerous concentrations of the virus. The development is described on the website of the Association of Universities of Valencia RUVID.

“The sensor uses specific antibodies that can detect SARS-CoV-2 in the air,” said Angel Maceira, a professor in the Department of Chemistry and director of the Institute for Molecular Recognition and Technological Development (IDM) at UPV. The system gives a signal if it detects a concentration of a virus that can harm a person.

The team conducted preliminary studies using virus-like particles (VPLs) developed by the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology ( BIOTECMED Institute) the ersity of Valencia. They mimic the virus but do not contain its genome, that is, they are not infectious. The creators explained that the biosensor is able to recognize them as a coronavirus using antibodies and the body's immune responses because SARS-CoV-2 virus-like particles include its four structural proteins.

The prototype is now at the testing stage in the clinic. Based on the results of the assessment, the researchers will determine the effectiveness of the biosensor and develop a system of measures that will help reduce the risk of infection in hospitals, as well as protect patients and medical personnel.

Researchers call the development promising because it can be used to prevent Covid-19without PCR tests that analyze air quality in crowded and potentially hazardous rooms. The sensor should determine the concentration of the virus faster - that is, it will be able to protect more people. In addition, it is expected to be inexpensive and easy to use.
“There is no technology on the market today like the one we developed at the prototype level, and it may become a 'barometer' in the near future,” concluded David Jimenez-Romero, professor at the Polytechnic University of Valencia. According to the authors of the project, the device can be used in interiors such as homes, classrooms, restaurants, cinemas, r transport.

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