Japanese Scientists Use Ostrich Cells to Make Glowing COVID-19 Detection Masks
Japanese researchers have developed masks that use ostrich antibodies to detect Covid-19 by glowing under ultraviolet light.
Scientists from the Kyoto Prefectural University say that the masks contain an additional filter within its layers that, when removed and sprayed with fluorescent dye containing antibodies, will glow when placed under UV light if traces of the coronavirus are detected.
According to a press release from the university, the team of scientists developed this method by first injecting an inactive form of the COVID-19 virus into female ostriches. Then, they worked to extract antibodies from the eggs of these female ostriches, infusing these antibodies into the fluorescent spray.
This discovery could provide a low-cost, at-home testing option for the virus. The team hopes to further develop the masks so that they will glow automatically, without special lighting, if the virus is detected.
Image source: Japan Times
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