Electrochemical ROS Detection in Sputum for COVID-19 Diagnosis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting COVID-19 infection, such as spectroscopic and fluorescent-dependent techniques, lack precision, sensitivity, and cost-effectiveness for real-time detection of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by the virus in vivo, particularly in sputum samples.
Innovation Solution
An electrochemical approach involving cyclic voltammetry (CV) using a sensing head with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) electrodes to measure ROS levels in sputum samples, allowing for the differentiation between COVID-19 infected and non-infected individuals based on specific current peaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If spectroscopic and fluorescent-dependent techniques are used to detect COVID-19, then detection capability is provided, but measurement precision and sensitivity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical detection methods (spectroscopic and fluorescent techniques) with an electrochemical detection system. The electrochemical sensor uses cyclic voltammetry to directly measure ROS levels, providing superior precision and reliability compared to optical methods. This substitution of detection mechanism resolves the contradiction by achieving both high measurement precision and reliable detection simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from optical signals to electrochemical signals. By measuring the electrochemical response (current) associated with ROS reactions instead of optical properties, the system achieves enhanced sensitivity and precision. This parameter change enables accurate quantification of ROS levels, directly addressing the measurement precision deficiency of optical methods.
2Measurement precision
If expensive chemical reagents and complex procedures are used, then detection accuracy may improve, but cost-effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable electrochemical sensor that eliminates the need for expensive chemical reagents. The sensor is designed for single-use, eliminating costs associated with reagent preparation, storage, and disposal. This approach maintains high detection accuracy while dramatically reducing operational costs, resolving the contradiction between accuracy and cost-effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrochemical sensor performs self-detection without requiring complex external reagents or extensive sample preparation. The sensor directly interacts with ROS in the sample, generating a measurable signal autonomously. This self-service capability eliminates the need for expensive chemical reagents and complex procedural steps, achieving both accuracy and cost-effectiveness.
3Productivity
If rapid detection methods are implemented, then productivity increases, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces time-consuming optical detection procedures with rapid electrochemical measurement. The electrochemical sensor provides real-time detection of ROS levels through direct electrochemical reactions, achieving both rapid results and high precision. This substitution resolves the contradiction by enabling fast detection without compromising measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrochemical detection system provides continuous real-time monitoring of ROS levels, eliminating the need for lengthy incubation or preparation periods required by other methods. The continuous measurement capability ensures both rapid detection and high precision by capturing dynamic ROS levels without interruption or delay.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method provides a rapid, reliable, and cost-effective means for diagnosing COVID-19 by accurately distinguishing between infected and non-infected individuals, with a high accuracy rate, reducing the need for expensive reagents and complex procedures.
Implementation Method 1
measuring the level of ROS in the sputum sample may include recording a cyclic voltammetry (CV) pattern from the sputum sample and measuring a current peak of the recorded CV pattern
Implementation Method 2
An electrochemical approach involving cyclic voltammetry (CV) using a sensing head with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) electrodes to measure ROS levels in sputum samples
Implementation Method 3
using a sensing head with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) electrodes to measure ROS levels in sputum samples
Implementation Method 4
measuring the level of mitochondrial ROS induced by COVID-19 virus in respiratory epithelial host cells of the person
Data Source
AI summary
A method for diagnosing COVID-19 infection of a person. The method includes acquiring a sputum sample of the person, measuring a level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the sputum sample, and detecting a COVID-19 infection status of the person based on the measured level of ROS. Measuring the level of ROS in the sputum sample includes recording a cyclic voltammetry (CV) pattern from the sputum sample and measuring a current peak of the recorded CV pattern. Detecting the COVID-19 infection status of the person based on the measured level of ROS includes detecting the person is infected with COVID-19 if the measured current peak is in a first range of current peaks and detecting the person is not infected with COVID-19 if the measured current peak is in a second range of current peaks.