The virus diagnostic device, dubbed LoCKAmp, features a portable testing unit, disposable cartridges and employs reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (or RT-LAMP) for multiplying specific sequences of RNA, thereby enabling instant detection of the virus in question. The researchers suggest that LAMP detection is more sensitive, faster and more specific than currently used PCR testing.

Source: Bath University

The researchers further explained that processing occurs at 65° whereas PCR tests require three thermal cycles. Additionally, the Bath team suggests that pre-processing of the nasal swab samples is not required.

The test works when a nasal swab sample is added to the device and the LoCKAmp pumps the liquid through transparent microfluidic channels on the circuit board located above 0.017 mm thick copper heaters that heat the sample, and subsequently release the RNA genetic material from the virus. The sample is further heated and thus treated with RT-LAMP chemicals to trigger multiplication.

If virus RNA in question is present in the amplified sample, the sample will fluoresce when light is shone on it, thereby signaling a positive test.

An article detailing the device, "LoCKAmp: lab-on-PCB technology for <3 minute virus genetic detection," appears in the journal Lab on a Chip.