Ebola virus detection in 30 minutes

On September 2, researchers from Nagasaki University (Japan) announced a test method to detect Ebola virus in just 30 minutes, according to AFP.

In particular, according to Professor Jiro Yasuda, head of the research team, the above method not only gives quick results but also does not require advanced technical facilities, so it is very cheap, suitable for conditions of African countries. has been experiencing Ebola outbreaks.

The current Ebola test method takes 1-2 hours and requires expensive specialized equipment - (Photo: Le Monde)

Specifically, the scientists extracted RNA from blood samples suspected of being infected with Ebola virus (the genetic information of the virus is RNA, not DNA), then mixed with a special DNA sequence in vitro and bring heat to 60-65 ^o C.

The DNA sequence is self-amplifying if it encounters the genetic information of the Ebola virus, and vice versa, the test tube will be blurred. Thus, the results can be distinguished by the naked eye.

Currently, Ebola blood test is mainly based on gene amplification method (PCR) , which requires a sufficient specialized device to analyze the results and analysis time from 1-2 hours.

Meanwhile, the method of the research team at Nagasaki University only requires a device to heat the test tube, which can be powered by batteries and costs about a few hundred dollars.

Professor Yasuda said 'please' donate all testing equipment in a new way to the affected countries in need.