In 2016, more than 6,000 French people were said to have been infected with the AIDS virus, according to Public Health France. In the same year, 5.4 million HIV serologies were performed in medical analysis laboratories. In fact, to screen it, it is possible to carry out blood tests in laboratories and hospitals, or anonymously and free of charge in anonymous and free screening centers (CDAG) and screening and diagnostic information centers. sexually transmitted infections (Ciddist). Only, according to the Institute for Public Health Surveillance, more than 20% of French people who carry out this screening would not take the time to come and get the results.
Since November 2010, these devices have been supplemented by rapid diagnostic orientation tests (TROD), carried out by associative structures. A response is thus obtained within 30 minutes. But at the same time, researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital (United States) have also developed a diagnostic tool capable of detecting the HIV virus with a cell phone. Their discovery was revealed in a journal article Nature Communications, published last month.
A fast and inexpensive system
“Early detection of HIV is essential to prevent the progression and transmission of the disease, and it requires long-term follow-up, which can be a burden for families who have to travel to a clinic or clinic. hospital “, Explain in a press release Hadi Shafiee, principal investigator of the study. He and his team therefore decided to develop a fast and inexpensive system to reduce the risk of transmission of the virus.
Using a microchip, a cell phone and 3D printed accessories, they created a platform capable of detecting the AIDS virus from a drop of blood. The device in fact detects the HIV RNA inside it – that is to say the genetic material of the virus – amplified by reagents, thanks to telephone monitoring of the movement of DNA strands.
The tests have proven to be effective, with reliable results available within an hour. And at a cost of less than $ 5 per test, including the microchip, phone accessories and reagents. In countries lacking infrastructure and skilled health workers, this finding could prove very useful for virus screening and surveillance, say the researchers: “Since the test is so quick, crucial decisions about the next medical step could be made right here., says Professor Hadi Shafiee. This would remove the burden of clinic visits and provide individuals with a more effective way to manage their HIV. “
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