A COVID-19 detection home kit
South Africa
Overview of research project
The research involves developing a simple home detection kit for COVID-19. The first stage of the project involves the identification of proteins from bacteria that has a binding affinity to specific sites on the SARS-CoV2 S protein. Computational analysis will investigate the binding potential of the antiviral cyanobacterial proteins including cyanovirin-N, scytovirin and phycocyanin with the fundamental proteins involved in attachment and replication of SARS-CoV-2. Following the computational analysis, the second stage will require building the molecular detection using specific bacterial proteins. The home kit not not use immunoglobulins or genomic sequences to detect the virus. The technology is based on natural fluorescent molecules that binds to the S protein of the virus. Using a built in ultraviolet light, the virus can be detected and visual display of the assays will provide accurate and instantons results.
Name of researcher/developer
Akash Anandraj
Primary organisation
Mangosuthu University of Technology, Centre for Algal Biotechnology
Opportunity type
Funding
Materials
Other
Opportunity detail
Funding. A grant of R1.5 million is required to develop a prototype detection kit.
Materials. We require equipment and chemical reagents and specific bacterial proteins and organic fluorescent dyes.
Other. We require a facility such as the TIA platform at Umbogintwini that is equipped to develop a prototype molecular detection kit.
Materials. We require equipment and chemical reagents and specific bacterial proteins and organic fluorescent dyes.
Other. We require a facility such as the TIA platform at Umbogintwini that is equipped to develop a prototype molecular detection kit.
Funding
Self-funded (e.g. from own or institutional resources)
Stage of development
Proof of Concept
Collaboration partner
Technology Innovation Agency Platform (Biotechnology Durban)
Research Category
Diagnostics
Medical Devices
Pharmaceuticals and Biopharmaceuticals