Automated Remote Outbreak Antibody Detection (A-Road)

The current Covid19-CoV2-SARS pandemic, as well as the preceding outbreaks of Ebola, SARS-CoV1 and MERS have shown how important it is to be able to track infections so that routes of transmission can be identified and closed off. Countries that have been able to test-and-track have been successful at minimising the effects of Covid-19 (e.g. South Korea), while countries lacking tests have suffered greatly (e.g. Italy, the US and indeed the UK).

Large scale, remote immunity testing has been proposed using a portable, paper-based device similar to a pregnancy test that users can perform themselves. Although these devices inform the user of the result, there is no immediate feedback to governmental bodies if the user tests positive.

Our project aims to build upon the existing remote home tests by (i) introducing sensitive electrical detection of anti-viral antibodies and (ii) using animal-free detection reagents instead of antibodies, and (iii) by adding to the existing products instead of trying to replace them. We will use the same paper test strips enclosed in a recyclable casing, but adding an electrical readout that will be automatically uploaded via a dedicated App on the user's phone. This will look, feel and perform just like a pregnancy test, but instead of seeing the positive blue line, an electrical signal will be read by a dedicated reader connected to a smartphone with an App to transmit the data to Public Health bodies, which can take active measures based on real time data. The App could also function as an immunity passport to allow individuals with immunity to return to work.

Current models on the transmission dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 suggest that social distancing could be in place intermittently until 2022 or beyond if no effective therapeutic or vaccination is available. We believe our solution will make a significant contribution to improved pandemic management, healthier society and economic recovery through safe return to work.

Using this technology real time remote monitoring of the pandemic is possible by detecting viral antigens or anti-viral antibodies. The same platform can be used to produce an instantaneous immunity passport, using the dedicated App and smartphone-implemented secure identification of the user by fingerprint or facial recognition.

Lateral flow tests are very widely used, and while the A-ROAD platform is designed to cope with the multiple test/track and trace challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, it will also be important to identify other healthcare settings where similar tests or integrated solutions are needed. Our approach is to enable established test manufacturers to improve their offerings rather than manufacturing devices ourselves - indeed the industry has already shown adaptability in taking up the current ‘digital’ readout offered by Clearblue pregnancy tests. Rather than replicate each manufacturer’s assay to show them the cost/benefits of our electronic lateral flow (eLF) platform compared to theirs, we are using Extension for Impact funding to replicate the most widely used and understood test - pregnancy testing by measuring hCG - so as to showcase our assay in a way that will be familiar and readily understood by all of our customers. The funding will allow us to benchmark the cost of production and performance characteristics of electronic lateral flow assays against Clearblue and regular line pregnancy tests which we believe will lead to productive conversations and commercial partnerships.