University of Pittsburgh researchers develop a microneedle array sensor that delivers results in 10 minutes to tell if flu/COVID vaccines are effective.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a needle-free skin patch that can detect antibodies associated with COVID-19 and influenza infections, offering a pain-free alternative to traditional blood draws for vaccine effectiveness monitoring.
The sensor, which uses just half a volt of electricity and returns results in 10 minutes, demonstrates orders of magnitude greater sensitivity than existing antibody tests, according to research published in Analytical Chemistry.
“It doesn’t penetrate too deep and so it’s not painful,” says Alexander Star, professor of chemistry in the Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, in a release. “It’s not touching any nerves and you’re not losing any blood, but you are getting the same results.”
Carbon Nanotube Technology Enables Detection
The sensor employs a virus-specific antigen attached to a carbon nanotube that is 100,000 times smaller than a human hair. The device attaches painlessly to skin using a microneedle array that samples interstitial fluids between skin cells.
When an antibody binds to its corresponding antigen, the electrical properties of the nanotubes change, indicating the presence of specific antibodies. This detection method can determine whether a vaccine has successfully trained someone’s immune system to fight a particular virus.
The technology could help clinicians assess vaccine effectiveness and determine whether patients with strong natural immune responses need booster shots.
Broader Applications Possible
Beyond SARS-CoV-2 and H1N1 detection, the platform could be configured to identify antibodies associated with various conditions, including autoimmune diseases where flareups are often triggered by viral infections.
Star has previously developed sensors using similar carbon nanotube platforms to detect substances including marijuana and fentanyl.
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