Achieving broad availability of SARS-CoV-2 detections via smartphone-based analysis

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Medical Diagnostics
• Mobile Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitates widely accessible and accurate diagnostic tests.
• Existing naked-eye SARS-CoV-2 test kits offer convenience but often have limitations in sensitivity and accuracy.
• Smartphones present a versatile platform for signal conversion, potentially enhancing home-based diagnostic capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and summarize current smartphone-based detection methods for SARS-CoV-2.
• To evaluate the performance, complexity, and cost-effectiveness of various smartphone-based diagnostic strategies.
• To propose future directions for improving smartphone integration in infectious disease detection.

Main Methods:

• Compilation and analysis of optical detection methods (non-nucleic acid based) using sensors and portable imaging.
• Review of nucleic acid amplification-based detection techniques including LAMP, CRISP, and CATCH, coupled with biosensors.
• Comparison of various electrochemical detection approaches.
• Evaluation of methods ranging from complex equipment setups to simple, free smartphone software solutions.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated smartphone-based SARS-CoV-2 detection using diverse optical, nucleic acid, and electrochemical approaches.
• Highlighted methods requiring complex setups and custom applications, alongside simpler, accessible alternatives using free software.
• Assessed the combined costs associated with typical smartphone-based detection systems.

Conclusions:

• Smartphone integration offers a promising avenue for enhancing the sensitivity and accuracy of SARS-CoV-2 home testing.
• Accessible and cost-effective smartphone-based detection strategies are crucial for broad availability and public health.
• Further development of user-friendly smartphone diagnostic tools can significantly improve pandemic preparedness and response.