Development of a rapid, point of care, COVID-19 detection system using proximity-based electrochemical principles

Rapidly detecting SARS-CoV-2 in infected individuals remains a critical problem in Canada. The current detection method is hindered by the need for highly trained personnel and expensive laboratory equipment. Such requirements cause long wait times and reduce the ability to manage the spread of COVID-19 in our communities. This Mitacs Accelerate project aims at addressing such problems, i.e., developing a rapid, easy-to-use, point of care (POC) detection system for hospitals, airports, long-term care facilities and working places. This goal is achievable because Metabolic Insights Inc (MII), the partner organization, has designed electrochemical sensors and analysis software that is user-friendly and requires little to no training. MII’s current sensor system can accurately detect DNA in solution; the interns conducting this project will enhance and optimize MII sensors to allow for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 protein in solution, making it a faster, more cost-effective alternative to current testing.

Faculty Supervisor:

Hua-Zhong Hogan Yu

Student:

Kun Liu;Kennedy Chen

Partner:

Metabolic Insights Inc

Discipline:

Chemistry

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

Simon Fraser University