2023-10-03 01:00:00
Title: Thai Researchers Develop Affordable ATK Test Kit for COVID-19 Diagnosis
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the Antigen Test Kit (ATK) has played a crucial role in screening for the disease. However, the high price of imported test kits has made it difficult for many individuals, especially those in high-risk groups, to access them on a regular basis. In response, a team of researchers from the Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering at Chulalongkorn University in Thailand has developed a cost-effective ATK test kit combined with label-free electrochemistry.
The team, led by Dr. Sudkhet Chaiyo, Dr. Chakraphan Khumsap, and Dr. Abdulhadi Yakoh, aims to meet the price requirements and improve the efficiency of ATK test kits for both the current COVID-19 outbreak and future epidemics. The collaboration between the Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, the International Standard Diagnostic Test Development Center, and the Office of Science and Technology Development has resulted in the creation of a groundbreaking ATK test kit in Thailand.
Dr. Sudket Chaiyo, one of the researchers, explained that the ATK test kit combined with label-free electrochemistry is the first innovation worldwide to utilize electrochemistry for COVID-19 testing. This innovation enhances the accuracy and sensitivity of the examination, making it an affordable ATK test kit produced in Thailand. By significantly reducing production costs, the Thai-made ATK test kit is approximately half the price of the imported ones. Dr. Sudket Chaiyo and the team have received awards for their innovative invention in Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences from the National Research Council of Thailand.
The new ATK test kit operates by utilizing the binding between antibodies and antigens to improve sensitivity in detecting even small amounts of the COVID-19 virus. It consists of ATK test strips, a solution, and a swab, with the special addition of electrodes inserted under the ATK and a QR code on the ATK pouch for convenient smartphone scanning. The test results can then be viewed and interpreted on the smartphone, providing greater accuracy than visual observation of color bands. The results are displayed even if the presence of the virus is minimal.
Initial testing of the ATK test kit combined with label-free electrochemistry at Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, with at-risk groups indicated a diagnostic sensitivity of 91.66% and a diagnostic specificity of 100%. The new ATK test kit proves to be effective in accurately diagnosing COVID-19, performing better than the traditional RT-PCR testing method. Additionally, the cost per unit of the ATK test kit is expected to be as low as 15 baht per set, making it a more affordable option than imported alternatives.
The development of this innovative ATK test kit is a significant step towards reducing the country’s dependence on imported test kits and expanding its usage to various agencies, communities, hospitals, and even remote areas. Dr. Sudket Chaiyo emphasized that the test kit is accurate, fast, cost-effective, and can be utilized by individuals in their homes. Furthermore, the research team is also working on developing a signal reader for easier interpretation of the test results and has plans to utilize their technology for the detection of sexually transmitted diseases. This vital research aims to prepare for future emerging diseases, enabling timely prevention and control of their spread.
In conclusion, the ATK test kit combined with label-free electrochemistry, invented by Thai researchers, provides an accessible and affordable solution to screen for COVID-19. This groundbreaking innovation not only increases the accuracy and sensitivity of the test but also paves the way for potential advancements in disease detection and prevention in the future.]
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