Enhancing Sensitivity in SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Testing through Integration of a Water-Soluble Polymer Wall

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new method to improve the sensitivity of rapid antigen tests for SARS-CoV-2 using a water-soluble polymer wall.

Contribution

The integration of a water-soluble polymer wall increases LFIA sensitivity by 5–20-fold for SARS-CoV-2 detection.

Findings

The modified LFIA achieved a detection limit of 50 pg mL−1.

The new kit showed 5–20-fold higher sensitivity than existing LFIA kits.

The WSPW-LFIA demonstrated high specificity for SARS-CoV-2.

Abstract

Lateral flow immunoassays (LFIAs) are recognized for their practicality in homecare and point-of-care testing, owing to their simplicity, cost-efficiency, and rapid visual readouts. Despite these advantages, LFIAs typically fall short in sensitivity, particularly in detecting viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, thus limiting their broader application. In response to this challenge, we have innovated an approach to substantially enhance LFIA sensitivity. This involves the integration of a water-soluble dextran–methacrylate polymer wall with a 15% grafting degree positioned between the test and control lines on the LFIA strip. This novel modification significantly improved the sensitivity of the assay, achieving detection limits as low as 50 pg mL−1 and enhancing the sensitivity by 5–20-fold relative to existing LFIA kits available on the market. Furthermore, our developed LFIA kit (WSPW-LFIA) demonstrated exceptional specificity for SARS-CoV-2. Coupled with a straightforward fabrication process and robust stability, the WSPW-LFIA represents a promising advancement for real-time in vitro diagnosis across a spectrum of diseases.

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