A team of scientists at NYU Abu Dhabi has engineered a groundbreaking diagnostic device—the Radially Compartmentalized Paper Chip (RCP-Chip)—capable of detecting COVID-19 and other infectious diseases in less than 10 minutes. Designed for low-resource settings, this compact test functions without lab equipment, electricity, or trained personnel, offering a powerful tool for rapid, on-site screening.
A Simple Yet Sophisticated Paper-Based Innovation
Developed at the university’s Advanced Microfluidics and Microdevices Laboratory (AMMLab), the RCP-Chip is crafted from a single sheet of paper and integrates all necessary components for diagnosis. These include sample ports, vents, fluidic resistors, and reaction chambers pre-loaded with primers, enzymes, and gold nanoparticles. A single droplet of sample fluid is enough to trigger a visible color change, signaling the presence of viral genetic material.
As reported by medicalxpress, the device requires only mild heat at around 65°C—roughly the temperature of warm water—to operate, making it highly practical for use in field conditions or remote areas.
Multiplex Detection Enhances Efficiency and Cost Savings
One of the chip’s most valuable features is its ability to perform multiplex testing. It can detect multiple gene targets simultaneously, reducing the required sample volume and lowering testing costs. Additionally, the device can be reconfigured to detect a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, from various sources such as saliva, blood, and environmental samples.
Real-World Impact During and Beyond the Pandemic
Conceived during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, the RCP-Chip was designed with affordability, speed, and accessibility in mind.
“Our goal was to create something fast, affordable, and easy to use, especially in areas with limited access to lab facilities,” said Mohammad A. Qasaimeh, NYUAD Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Bioengineering, and senior author of the study.
Co-first author Pavithra Sukumar added, “This is a fast, affordable, lab-free test that detects multiple gene targets in under 10 minutes. Its real-world potential could significantly enhance outbreak response by enabling faster isolation, treatment, and control.”
Published Research Highlights Diagnostic Breakthrough
The study, titled “Single-Layer Radially Compartmentalized Paper Chip (RCP-Chip) for Rapid Isothermal Multiplex Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Gene Targets”, appears in the journal Advanced Sensor Research. It details both the development and validation of the RCP-Chip as a rapid diagnostic platform ideal for use in low-resource or emergency settings.
Next Steps: Smarter Detection and Global Connectivity
Looking ahead, the research team plans to enhance the chip’s plasmonic detection capabilities and expand its point-of-care applications. Additionally, they aim to integrate smartphone connectivity for real-time data sharing and outbreak tracking, which could revolutionize public health surveillance and pandemic preparedness.
With its speed, simplicity, and adaptability, the RCP-Chip promises to become an essential tool for improving diagnostic reach and strengthening global health systems.