A research team, including Dr. Suh Min-ah of Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Sensor System Research Center, has developed a molecular detection platform to accurately detect various kinds of biomolecules including Avian Influenza viruses.

In recent years, the bird flu caused great damage all around the world including Korea, bringing urgent need for early diagnosis.

The team developed a Terahertz metamaterial for distinguishing and quantifying traces of AI viruses by subtypes, in collaboration with Professor Kang Ji-hoon강지훈 of the University of California at Berkeley, Professor Song Chang-sun송창선 of the College of Veterinary Medicine of Konkuk University건국대 수의과대학, and Professor Park Kyu-hwan박규환 of Korea University고려대 .

Instead of the conventional method to mark the viruses with various indexes, the Terahertz metamaterial can detect viruses label-free using spectroscopic techniques.

KIST research team developed a Terahertz metamaterial, a molecular detection platform using optical and biosensor technology for accurately and quickly detecting viruses.

The traditional process of attaching individual molecules to the chemical/electrical properties may change the nature of the virus, making it difficult to observe the pattern of the virus in the future.

However, the researchers used the inherent optical properties of the immune specific marker for virion, which does not change the nature of the virus. This method is non-contact, especially non-destructive.

"The molecular sensing technology developed in this study can be used to detect trace amounts of molecules selectively. At present, trace quantities of specific DNA and steroids are also validated for detection," said Dr. Suh. "We expect to be applied to diagnostic studies to identify various disease-specific low-molecular substances in the future quickly."

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