Validation of 3D-Printed Swabs for Sampling in SARS-CoV-2 Detection: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Engineering
• Medical Diagnostics
• 3D Printing Technology

Background:

• Nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs are critical for detecting SARS-CoV-2.
• Traditional swabs can face supply chain challenges and higher costs.
• 3D printing offers a potential solution for customized and affordable medical devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize and evaluate 3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) swabs for SARS-CoV-2 sample collection.
• To assess the mechanical properties and in vitro performance of these novel swabs.
• To determine the suitability of 3D-printed swabs for viral RNA detection using qRT-PCR.

Main Methods:

• Fused deposition modeling technique used to create PLA swabs.
• Mechanical testing in laboratory and Adult Human Simulator environments.
• In vitro validation of cell collection, RNA extraction, and qRT-PCR analysis with samples from healthy volunteers.

Main Results:

• 3D-printed PLA swabs demonstrated good flexibility, maneuverability, and robustness for sample collection.
• PLA material did not interfere with RNA extraction or qRT-PCR assays.
• Reproducible threshold cycle (Ct) values for the reference gene (RNase P) were observed, comparable to control swabs (p=0.47).

Conclusions:

• 3D-printed PLA swabs are a reliable and economical alternative for mass SARS-CoV-2 detection.
• The study validates the use of 3D-printed swabs in standard diagnostic workflows.
• This technology presents a promising solution to enhance diagnostic supply chains.