Well here it is, folks. I can barely believe it. Not only do people read my blog, they do so before I've even written it!
This novel diagnostic method is being developed here in Oxford, a new approach to testing that, according to the research paper:
- "relies on the detection of intact virus particles using wide-field fluorescence imaging".
- The first step is "binding of short fluorescent DNAs to the surface of virus particles"
- Then "surface-immobilise labelled particles, collect diffraction-limited images containing thousands of labelled particles" to be observed under a visual microscope
- finally use image analysis and machine-learning to identify different viruses, distinctly from others
- "Our assay achieves labeling, imaging and virus identification in less than five minutes and does not require any lysis, purification or amplification steps." Astonishing.
- Furthermore the method has "... the ability to detect multiple virus types in a single labelling step, and robustness against potential mutations in the viral genome." Vital.
The research group says the equipment is mobile and "Given its simplicity and rapid nature, our technology could also be used outside of specialized laboratories, such as in airports, workplaces and care homes." Entertainment and sports venues too, helping to reopen those industries.
There's only one problem. The announcement by Oxford University says "They hope to incorporate the company by
the end of the year" [now done], "start product development in early 2021, and have
an approved device available within 6 months of that time." i.e late 2021.
Can't wait. But we're going to have to wait.
WHAT ABOUT IN THE MEANTIME?
There are novel test methods being developed throughout the world. Two of the most promising also come from other Oxford University departments, using RT-LAMP technology:
- The LamPORE tests from Oxford Nanopore being trialed in Salford
- A faster cheaper test from Oxsed
But between now and Chrstimas 2020 we are only going to have RT-PCR tests available. As the new research paper says:
"Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is considered the gold standard for diagnosis; however, RT-PCR takes several hours to provide a result, is restricted to specialized laboratories (as it requires viral lysis and RNA extraction), and can be limited by supply chain issues."
They go on to say "Isothermal nucleic acid amplification methods, such as loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP), offer a promising alternative that does not require thermal cycling and can provide results within an hour2-7; however, these methods are still subject to similar supply chain issues as RT-PCR. Rapid (<30 minutes) immunoassay-based antigen-detecting tests exist for some viruses (e.g., influenza), but generally have low sensitivities8. There is thus an urgent need for new viral detection approaches, particularly ones that can be deployed in non-laboratory settings."
SO WHAT SHOULD WE DO NOW?
If we are to be able to live within the capacity constraints of the current RT-PCR testing, then we need to get infection levels down to #NearZero.
To do that we need a Circuit Breaker to stem the tide of the second wave, but enhance it with a Voluntary Mass Simultaneous Self-Isolation. That would get the infection rate down lower.
On testing, the experts say that we should use the time of the Circuit Breaker to "sort out Test and Trace". Sadly that isn't simply improving Pillar 2 Test and Trace run by SERCO. As I said back in early August "TTI is therefore impractical and inherently an expensive waste of money if attempted at a national scale, as being done for NHS Test and Trace".
We need to consider cancelling Pillar 2 testing, and expand the Pillar 1 testing within the NHS.
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