Researchers in Japan published a study in the journal Scientific Reports stating the development of a new antibody-based technique for the quick and accurate detection of SARS-CoV-2 without the need for blood samples.

The researchers used the idea of sampling and testing the interstitial fluid (ISF), which is found in the epidermis and dermis layers of human skin. Though antibody levels in the ISF are approximately 15-25 % of that in blood, it was still able to discover anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM/IgG antibodies and use the ISF as a direct replacement for blood collection 

Firstly the researchers developed biodegradable porous microneedles made of polylactic acid that draws up the ISF from human skin and then constructed a paper-based immunoassay biosensor for the detection of SARS-CoV-2-specific antibodies. Finally, the two components were integrated to create a small patch that can detect antibodies on-site in three minutes.

According to the researchers, this innovative detection tool is safe for use on patients and has significant potential for quick screening of COVID-19 and many other infectious disorders. It has potential for usage in numerous nations, regardless of their level of affluence, which is a crucial goal for the management of infectious diseases globally. (Hindustan Times, Jul 01, 2022)