Innovative Liquid Crystal Technology Promises Rapid and Accurate At-Home COVID-19 Testing

Researchers from the University of Arkansas have developed a groundbreaking COVID-19 testing method utilizing liquid crystal technology, which could revolutionize at-home viral detection. Traditional home antigen tests often struggle to identify recent or asymptomatic infections, while PCR tests, though more accurate, require laboratory processing and take days for results. The new liquid crystal-based sensor addresses these issues by providing results in under two minutes and detecting trace amounts of the virus, specifically SARS-CoV-2.

This innovative test works by leveraging the unique properties of liquid crystals—rod-shaped molecules that align in specific orientations. In this application, when the virus's spike proteins bind to a metallic surface embedded in the sensor, they trigger a reorientation of the liquid crystals. This change can be observed visually, as the molecules' realignment causes a detectable shift, effectively signaling the presence of the virus.

The sensitivity of this technology is notable; it can detect virus concentrations as low as 2,000 spike proteins per milliliter, far below what is typically found in saliva of infected individuals, which can range from 10,000 to over 100 million. The detection hinges on the fact that the reorientation of liquid crystals is highly responsive to surface interactions, with small changes at the surface level propagating through the bulk of the fluid and manifesting as visible cues.

Furthermore, this platform could be adaptable for broader pathogen detection, including unknown viruses or other harmful agents like chemical toxins or nerve agents. The potential for early detection, especially airborne detection before pathogens invade the body, highlights its significance in managing future pandemics and chemical threats.

This research, detailed in 'Advanced Materials Technologies,' shows promise for developing inexpensive, rapid diagnostic tools that can be self-administered, reducing reliance on healthcare facilities and enabling prompt responses to infectious diseases.

[source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-liquid-crystal-covid-enable-rapid.html]