Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati have developed a novel technique to detect and quantify SARS-CoV-2—the virus responsible for COVID-19—using a sedimentation-based method. This new approach, which tracks how a clay-virus-electrolyte mixture settles over time, offers a low-cost and accessible alternative to existing complex diagnostic techniques.
Published Findings and Key Contributors
As reported by Express Healthcare, the research findings have been published in the peer-reviewed journal Applied Clay Science. The study was co-authored by Professor T. V. Bharat from the Department of Civil Engineering and Professor Sachin Kumar from the Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering. Research scholars Dr. Himanshu Yadav and Deepa Mehta also contributed significantly to the study.
Addressing Gaps in Existing Virus Detection Methods
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted serious shortcomings in the current virus detection infrastructure. Techniques like Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) are highly sensitive but time-intensive and equipment-heavy. Antigen tests provide faster results but often lack accuracy, while antibody tests serve only a post-infection diagnostic purpose. These limitations are especially pronounced in resource-constrained settings or during widespread outbreaks.
Bentonite Clay: A Natural Ally in Virus Detection
To address these issues, the IIT Guwahati research team turned to Bentonite clay, known for its ability to absorb pollutants and bind to viruses due to its negatively charged surface and unique chemical structure. Previous studies have indicated that clay particles can effectively attach to viruses and bacteriophages, making Bentonite an ideal material for virus detection.
Laboratory Observations and Results
The team tested how Bentonite interacts with virus particles in a saline environment at room temperature and a neutral pH of 7. They observed that both a coronavirus surrogate and the Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) adhered to the clay surfaces. By monitoring the rate of sedimentation—the speed at which the clay-virus mixture settled—they could detect the presence and concentration of viral particles.
A Simple Yet Powerful Analogy
Explaining the simplicity of the method, Professor T. V. Bharat said, “Imagine a world where detecting viruses is as simple as watching sand settle in water. That is the breakthrough we have achieved. By observing how the clay settles in a solution, we can quickly determine whether a virus is present and how much of it exists.”
He further noted that this study builds on the team’s prior research, which includes developing specialized biomedical waste management solutions, as published in Langmuir, and funded by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.
Validation and Accuracy
To confirm the reliability of their method, the researchers validated their results using established diagnostic techniques, including plaque assays for the coronavirus surrogate and RT-PCR for IBV. The sedimentation-based method yielded results comparable to these standard approaches, demonstrating its accuracy and potential.
Wider Applications and Future Plans
Importantly, this method does not limit itself to SARS-CoV-2. Researchers believe they can adapt it to detect other viruses, such as the Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), which significantly impacts the poultry industry
This technique’s simplicity and affordability make it especially valuable in areas that lack advanced lab infrastructure or trained personnel. With further development, developers could incorporate the method into portable field kits or basic lab setups, enabling rapid, widespread viral surveillance during public health crises.
Industry Collaboration and Clinical Trials Ahead
Looking ahead, the research team plans to collaborate with industry partners and medical institutions to conduct clinical trials for SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses. By leveraging industry expertise and resources, the team aims to bring this innovative method closer to real-world application and contribute meaningfully to global efforts against viral outbreaks.