For the past few months the group have been working with Iceni Diagnostics to develop an alternative tool for detecting the novel coronavirus (SARS-COV-2). We have discovered that coronavirus spike proteins (the 'outside of the virus') binds to specific glycans (sugars) and use this to 'capture' it and allow rapid detection using a lateral flow device. Lateral flow devices (e.g home pregnancy test) are easy to use and do not need any training nor infrastructure. We have have proven the principle of this method now, have made prototype devices and are looking to take it (quickly) to the next stage.

Press release is here

Pre-print (NOT PEER REVIEWED) describing the technology is here.

The SARS-COV-2 Spike Protein Binds Sialic Acids, and Enables Rapid Detection in a Lateral Flow Point of Care Diagnostic Device