Portable Influenza Virus Detection Device Based on Isothermal Amplification of Nucleic Acids

State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China

^* Corresponding author: hcgu@seu.edu.cn

Abstract

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based nucleic acid detection is the gold standard in molecular diagnostics. However, its high cost and complex operation limit its use in point-of-care testing (POCT) scenarios. In this study, we developed a portable nucleic acid detection device. It’s based on isothermal amplification and fluorescence detection for the rapid on-site diagnosis of influenza viruses and other infectious diseases. This work focuses on several aspects. First, optimizing the temperature control of the isothermal amplification system. Second, selecting the light source and designing the optical path for fluorescence detection. Third, processing fluorescence images, and integrating the hardware and software of the device. Experimental results showed that the optimized temperature control system could rapidly reach and stably maintain the target temperature. The fluorescence detection system and its related image- processing algorithms exhibited excellent sensitivity and accuracy. The device effectively detected simulated influenza targets. It demonstrated portability, stability, and high sensitivity, hignlighting its potential applications in POCT scenarios.