testing device that can return accurate results within four minutes and is as accurate as the widely used PCR tests.
The researchers said the new test device used tiny mechanical components made of DNA combined with microelectronics to detect genetic material in a swab sample and convert it to an electrical signal. The device is connected to a computer or smartphone to show a result. A PCR test is the most accurate way so far to diagnose Covid-19, according to the World Health Organisation. Samples are tested for viral genetic material in a lab by trained personnel, with the results usually taking between one and several days.
The Fudan researchers said their test could detect the virus in under four minutes – with an average time of one minute – in all swab samples from 33 people who had been confirmed by the gold-standard PCR tests to have Covid-19.