Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania and New York University have developed a device that will facilitate the identification of viruses.

A device called VIRRION will isolate and identify any virus based on a small sample. VIRRION uses an array of nanotubes with different diameters.

Nanotubes allow you to catch a wide range of viruses, regardless of the size of their protein coat. Then the captured particles are analyzed using Raman spectroscopy. To detect viruses even in extremely low concentrations, the sample is enriched with gold nanoparticles.

According to nanonewsnet.ru, bulky expensive devices are used to detect viruses today, but VIRRION’s dimensions do not exceed a few centimeters, and its price is low. Another advantage of the device is its speed: analysis of a small sample will take only a few minutes, not days.

The authors note that VIRRION will be useful to both doctors and researchers who monitor the evolution of viruses. This primarily concerns remote regions with poor access to medical care. In addition, the device will help farmers in time to recognize the outbreak of the virus and save most of the herd.

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