NanoDx COVID-19 Nanoporopus silicon for next generation immuno-proteomic investigations

The challenge The current standard to test for the virus that causes COVID-19 is time consuming and not completely reliable, because it is difficult to keep the sample from degrading after it is taken. What is needed is a more sensitive and stable test that can accurately identify asymptomatic carriers of the virus as well as those who may have achieved immunity. This test should be applied with due consideration for ethics and privacy issues, and it should be followed up with telemedicine. The solution This project will provide a more sensitive means of diagnosing COVID-19 with a paper-based test that combines innovations in two technologies: use of nanoporous silicon and an immuno protemic, or protein-based, test. The nanoporous silicon improves the ability of the test to capture tell-tale biomarkers that indicate infection, while keeping those biomarkers stable. The technology involved in the test will allow for diagnosing even low concentrations of viral infection, as well as giving prognostic information that can help in patient management. Along with developing an improved method of testing, this project will also include a solution to allow for informed consent to the technology, ethical implementation and integration of telemedicine to care for patients. Expected impact Better, more accurate tests for COVID-19 are essential to battling the pandemic and to providing better care for each individual patient. While improving diagnosis that helps fight the pandemic, this project also implements protections for patients.