Abu Dhabi Scientists Develop Rapid, Affordable 10-Minute Disease Test with Global Potential
A team of researchers at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) has unveiled a breakthrough diagnostic tool capable of detecting infectious diseases in under 10 minutes. The Radially Compartmentalised Paper Chip (RCP-Chip) is a portable, affordable, and rapid testing solution designed to operate in low-resource and remote settings without the need for specialized laboratory equipment or trained technicians.
Originally conceptualized in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the RCP-Chip offers real-time detection for a variety of diseases. With minimal adjustments, it can also be reprogrammed to detect viruses and bacteria responsible for illnesses such as chickenpox, dengue, and malaria.
“Our goal was to create something fast, affordable, and easy to use — especially in areas where lab access is limited,” said Dr. Mohammad A. Qasaimeh, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Bioengineering at NYUAD and senior author of the study.
Fast, Flexible, and Field-Ready
The RCP-Chip uses saliva samples, eliminating the need for swabs and making it even more user-friendly and non-invasive. According to the research team, the device runs with minimal reagents and requires only a basic heating element, typically around 60°C, which can be supplied by commonly available tools like a hot plate or oven.
The device is mass-producible and can be rapidly deployed in emergencies, making it an ideal solution for outbreak response, early diagnosis, and public health management.
“This test could significantly improve outbreak response by enabling faster isolation, treatment, and control,” said Pavithra Sukumar, Research Assistant at NYUAD and co-first author of the study.
Two Years in the Making
The RCP-Chip took nearly two years to develop, with the team facing delays due to lab closures and restrictions during the pandemic. “In the early phase, we focused on designing the chip and brainstorming the technical approach,” said Dr. Qasaimeh. “Once access to the labs resumed, we moved forward with testing and refining the device.”
Looking Ahead
Beyond infectious diseases, the RCP-Chip holds future potential for broader applications such as hormone and metabolite testing, according to the research team. The device’s scalability and adaptability could revolutionize global health diagnostics, particularly in underserved regions where rapid and accurate disease detection remains a major challenge.
As the world continues to prepare for future health crises, innovations like the RCP-Chip underscore the vital role of science and innovation in public health — with Abu Dhabi researchers now standing at the forefront of this transformative effort.
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