Smartphone-Based Mobile Detection Platform for Molecular Diagnostics and Spatiotemporal Disease Mapping

Area of Science:

• Molecular Diagnostics
• Biotechnology
• Mobile Health

Background:

• Conventional molecular diagnostics are lab-dependent, requiring specialized equipment and trained personnel.
• There is a critical need for rapid, quantitative diagnostic tools in remote and resource-limited settings.
• Existing methods often lack portability and ease of use for field applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simple, inexpensive, and portable molecular diagnostic platform for field use.
• To enable rapid, connected, and quantitative detection of pathogens using smartphone technology.
• To overcome the limitations of traditional laboratory-based molecular diagnostics.

Main Methods:

• Development of a "smart-connected cup" (SCC) platform integrating bioluminescent assay in real-time and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (BART-LAMP).
• Utilized electricity-free exothermic chemical reactions for isothermal amplification heating, regulated by phase change material.
• Integrated a custom Android App for signal monitoring, quantification, data sharing, and spatiotemporal mapping.
• Smartphone-based detection eliminated the need for external excitation sources and optical filters.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated quantitative detection of Zika virus (ZIKV) in urine and saliva within 45 minutes.
• Successfully detected Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in blood samples in under 45 minutes.
• Validated the platform's connectivity for disease spatiotemporal mapping via a custom website.
• Achieved rapid, quantitative molecular diagnostics without requiring laboratory facilities.

Conclusions:

• The SCC platform offers a viable solution for point-of-care molecular diagnostics in diverse settings.
• This smart and connected diagnostic system is suitable for home, field, and clinic use, especially in resource-limited areas.
• The technology aligns with the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) for enhanced disease surveillance and management.