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Enhancing a SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid antigen test sensitivity with cost efficient strategy through a cotton
Diego Rinaldi Pavesi Nicollete1, Rafael Benedetti2, Beatriz Arruda Valença2
1Research and Development Department, Hilab, Hilab Campus, José A. Possebom, 800, Curitiba, Paraná, 81270-185, Brazil. diego.nicollete@hilab.com.br.
Scientific Reports
|March 23, 2023
Summary
Researchers developed a novel lateral flow intermembrane immunoassay test (LFIIT) for rapid SARS-CoV-2 detection. This enhanced sensitivity test accurately identifies the nucleocapsid protein, aiding in early COVID-19 diagnosis and control.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Immunodiagnostics
- Infectious Disease Research
Background:
- Lateral flow antigen tests were crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic for rapid diagnostics and infection control.
- Satisfactory test sensitivity is essential to accurately detect the target protein and prevent false negatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a highly sensitive lateral flow test capable of detecting SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein at low concentrations.
- To create a rapid diagnostic prototype comparable to existing market tests' limits of detection.
Main Methods:
- Optimized prototype development by adjusting test line antibody concentration.
- Introduced an intermembrane layer between the conjugate pad and nitrocellulose membrane.
- Evaluated the limit of detection for the novel test prototype.
Main Results:
- Achieved a four-fold increase in test sensitivity through proposed modifications.
- Developed a new prototype named "lateral flow intermembrane immunoassay test" (LFIIT).
- Established an adequate limit of detection of 2.0 ng/mL for the LFIIT.
Conclusions:
- The LFIIT prototype demonstrates high sensitivity for detecting SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein.
- The developed test maintains affordability and manufacturing simplicity.
- This advancement offers a promising tool for rapid and reliable COVID-19 screening.
