Color Test to Detect HIV

British scientists have developed a low-cost test that can detect the HIV virus and cancer. Color of the liquid in the detector will change to indicate a positive or negative outcome.

The scientists of Imperial College in London said, these tools can help HIV testing and other diseases in many parts of the world where other testing methods were too expensive.

The prototype still require further testing, as described in the journal Nature Nanotechnology. The test can configure unique signs of a disease or a virus, such as the proteins found on the surface of HIV. If the marker is present, the chemical reaction will change. The tool's indicator will show blue if positive and red if negative.

Essentially, the sensor works by analyzing serum, a protein-rich liquid that separates when blood coagulates. Positive and negative reactions can then be viewed easily by the naked eye. The scientists believe that the new sensor will greatly help other countries without the necessary equipment and technology to treat its patients. So far the sensor was able to detect a biomarker called p24 in blood samples, which actually indicates HIV. In another series of tests conducted, the sensor was also able to detect a biomarker called Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA), which is an indicator for Prostate Cancer.

Scientists say this simple technology allows the test results seen with the naked eye. Professor Molly Stevens said, "This method should be used when the presence of low concentrations of target molecules may improve disease diagnosis. Example, is very important to detect a few molecules at ultra low concentrations to test for the presence of cancer after removal of the tumor."

The researchers expect their design will cost 10 times less than current tests. They say this will be important in countries where the only options are unaffordable.

Fellow researcher Dr Roberto de la Rica said: "This test could be significantly cheaper to administer, which could pave the way for more widespread use of HIV testing in poorer parts of the world."

Initial tests showed that the presence of the HIV virus markers and prostate cancer can be detected. However, trials in larger scale is needed before it can be used clinically. *** [BBC | JAM | PIKIRAN RAKYAT 08112012]
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