Tulane University scientists have unveiled a groundbreaking handheld device capable of delivering rapid and accurate tuberculosis (TB) diagnoses in under an hour. Published in Science Translational Medicine, this innovation could significantly improve TB testing, especially in resource-limited settings.
Lab-in-Tube Device Brings the Lab to the Patient
The new diagnostic tool, called a lab-in-tube assay (LIT), is smartphone-sized and battery-powered, making it ideal for use in rural or under-resourced areas. Unlike traditional testing methods, the LIT device does not require bulky or expensive lab infrastructure, offering a cost-effective point-of-care solution.
Each device costs less than $800, and each test costs under $3—a stark contrast to widely used TB machines that can cost up to $19,000 with $100 per test in some regions.
A Game-Changer for TB Testing in Children
For the first time, a TB testing device can detect Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) DNA in saliva, alongside blood and sputum. Since saliva collection is non-invasive and easier—especially for children—this feature makes the LIT device a critical tool for pediatric TB diagnosis.
According to the World Health Organization, over 1 million children contract TB annually, but more than half go undiagnosed or unreported due to limited access to suitable diagnostic tools.
Addressing the Global TB Burden
TB remains the world’s deadliest infectious disease, infecting an estimated 10 million people annually. Low- and middle-income countries account for over 90% of new cases. Recent healthcare disruptions have further fueled a resurgence in TB, underscoring the urgent need for accessible and efficient diagnostic tools.
“TB remains a critical public health concern in low-income countries,” said Dr. Tony Hu, senior author and director of the Tulane Center for Cellular & Molecular Diagnostics. “Our simple, affordable test can not only treat patients effectively but also help prevent further spread of the disease.”
High Accuracy and Versatile Sample Compatibility
As reported by medicalxpress, in clinical tests conducted in the Dominican Republic, the LIT device demonstrated impressive performance. It showed 81% sensitivity in detecting TB from children’s blood samples—surpassing a more expensive machine that reported only 68% sensitivity. The LIT assay also met WHO criteria for TB diagnostics.
Importantly, the device performed well with blood serum samples, which are vital for patients living with HIV or children who often cannot produce sputum. Researchers also noted that blood-based test results closely mirrored clinical improvement, indicating potential for monitoring treatment progress.
Saliva Testing Expands Access and Portability
Lead author Brady Youngquist emphasized the impact of saliva-based testing:
“Saliva testing for TB is particularly exciting because it’s easily collected in all patients and enables portable testing without needing a blood draw,” he said. “This is especially valuable for children and HIV-positive individuals, who frequently can’t produce sputum.”
Moving Toward Scalable, Accessible TB Solutions
Ultimately, the LIT device represents a major step forward in the fight against tuberculosis. It combines affordability, portability, and ease of use, making it a vital tool for reaching underserved communities and controlling the global TB epidemic.