Pittsburgh-area researchers develop new COVID-19 antibody test that delivers results in seconds

It’s being called a potential game changer in the ongoing fight against COVID-19.

Pittsburgh-area researchers are working on a new antibody test that would deliver results faster than ever, in a matter of 10-15 seconds.

That’s how long it would take to find out whether you have COVID-19 antibodies in your system.

Researchers at CMU, Pitt and UPMC have been hard at work behind the scenes developing the new antibody test.

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Researchers said this test takes a small drop of blood from your fingertip to check for two COVID-19 antibodies.

Locally, researchers developed a small device that can fit in the palm of your hand. They used a 3D printer and other items and the results are then sent to a smartphone.

“It’s super exciting simply because this can directly impact people’s lives, right? Positively, directly impact people’s lives,” said Rahul Panat, a professor at Carnegie Mellon University. “We could test people in seconds so the total time can be a few minutes and then we just need one minute to regenerate the device.”

Researchers said it is inexpensive and appears to be consistent.

Pitt researchers report promising new finding in fight against COVID-19

Cox Media Group