The most accurate way to diagnose Hepatitis C is with molecular testing, which should start with an antibody assay, followed by a nucleic acid test for RNA detection to confirm the initial result. However, current testing methods are time-consuming, expensive and challenging to deploy in remote and underdeveloped areas.
Researchers from Florida Atlantic University’s College of Engineering and Computer Science and collaborators, have designed a microfluidic platform that incorporates different steps that are usually performed by trained personnel in sophisticated lab settings on a single platform. The entire virus detection process is executed inside a uniquely designed, inexpensive, disposable, and self-driven microfluidic chip.
The device is user-friendly, portable and provides a visual confirmation using only a small amount of sample and few reagents. The fully automated sample-in–answer-out molecular diagnostic set-up rapidly detects Hepatitis C virus in about 45 minutes. The technology uses relatively inexpensive and reusable equipment costing about $50 for sample processing and disease detection. The disposable microfluidic chip also offers shorter times for a reliable diagnosis and costs about $2.
Results of the study, published in the journal Biosensors, showed that human plasma samples spiked with Hepatitis C virus particles that were tested with the device offered a high sensitivity of 500 viral copies/mL and specificity, without the need for trained technicians, expensive equipment, or facilities. The RNA-based set-up utilizes a colorimetric result readout, which is an accurate method that can be implemented in low-income areas, making it accessible to people.
The set-up consists of an automated disposable microfluidic chip, a small surface heater, and a reusable magnetic actuation platform. The compact microfluidic chip enables nucleic acid isolation, purification, amplification, and colorimetric detection of the amplified product. The system utilizes a dye to detect the amplification product with the naked eye. The dye changes color from orange to green in the presence of double-stranded DNA, resulting in easy analysis without the need for fluorescent imaging.
The microchip is designed with distinct shapes of chambers so that the solutions can be retained during the entire execution process. The diamond-shape chambers contain different buffers performing different tasks for optimal RNA purification. The inlet and reaction chambers are dual-purpose chambers, making the plasma processing steps less complex.
