A smartphone-based diagnostic tool to detect diseases brings the lab to remote areas

The CSIR has developed a smartphone technology that is used as a detection system for analysing biomolecular assays or chemical reactions. The smartphone is used to capture one or more images of the biomolecular assays, which are processed by way of bespoke hardware and software to provide analytical data, such as test results, associated with the biomolecular assays, in a cost-effective manner. Furthermore, since a smartphone has internet connectivity, the analytical data test results can be stored in the cloud or transmitted to desired recipients. The technology that will be embedded in the smartphone is economically advantageous because it uses low-cost materials.

Traditional technologies employed to analyse biomolecular assays are expensive, bulky and many can only be used in a laboratory environment by trained laboratory personnel. Using a standard smartphone as a means to analyse biomolecular assays addresses these hurdles. The technology does not require any modification to the smartphone and is thus convenient, user-friendly and cost-effective. The smartphone device uses cheap components which cost less than R10, thus making the technology cost effective.

The product is at level 7 of the internationally accepted technology readiness scale, a universal statement indicating that a prototype can be demonstrated in an operational environment. It has undergone in-practice testing at the CSIR Medical Centre.