Scientists at Shanghai Tongji University in China have created a face mask that can alert the wearer to the presence of respiratory viruses in the surrounding environment, including the viruses behind COVID-19 and influenza. The mask includes aptamers, which are short sequences of DNA or RNA that can bind to protein targets. When the viral particles bind to the aptamers, the ion-active transistors boost the signal so that the mask can sensitively detect small amounts of virus. The mask sends a message to the user’s smartphone within 10 minutes of detecting the virus. The technology could be invaluable to healthcare workers or vulnerable patients who are at high risk of serious illness.
Face masks have been a cornerstone in our response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The simple and effective barrier function that these masks fulfill has undoubtedly helped to limit the spread of SARS-CoV-2. However, what if our masks could do much more, providing us with an early warning system that there is viral contamination in the air?
“Previous research has shown that wearing a face mask can reduce the risk of spreading and contracting the disease,” said Yin Fang, a researcher involved in the study. “So we wanted to create a mask that could detect the presence of viruses in the air and alert the wearer.”
The team behind this latest study created it. His mask not only detects SARS-CoV-2, but can also identify two different strains of influenza (H5N1 and H1N1). With the southern hemisphere experiencing a significant resurgence of influenza this year, after two years without much flu activity, these technologies could be useful for vulnerable patients who could experience serious complications if they contract influenza or COVID-19.
The mask is based on aptamers, which are synthetic molecules made from DNA or RNA, but which work a bit like antibodies, binding specific molecules such as proteins. Mask aptamers are specific for SARS-CoV-2, H5N1 and H1N1. If these viral particles are present in the air around the mask wearer, they will bind to the mask’s aptamers. Ion-controlled transistors present in the mask’s sensor then help amplify this signal, allowing the mask to take highly sensitive measurements.
The mask will then send a signal to the user’s smartphone within 10 minutes to alert them of the presence of viral particles. Researchers are working to reduce this time, to help make the system as fast and useful as possible.
Study in the journal Matter: Wearable bioelectronic masks for wireless detection of respiratory infectious diseases using gaseous media
Via: Cell Press