Rapid and ultra-sensitive detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is critical for early screening and management of COVID-19. Currently, the real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) is the primary laboratory method for diagnosing SARS-CoV-2. It is not suitable for at-home COVID-19 diagnostic test due to the long operating time, specific equipment, and professional procedures. Here an all-printed photonic crystal (PC) microarray with portable device for at-home COVID-19 rapid antigen test is reported. The fluorescence-enhanced effect of PC amplifies the fluorescence intensity of the labeled probe, achieving detection of nucleocapsid (N-) protein down to 0.03 pg mL −1 . A portable fluorescence intensity measurement instrument gives the result (negative or positive) by the color of the indicator within 5 s after inserting the reacted PC microarray test card. The N protein in inactivated virus samples (with cycle threshold values of 26.6–40.0) can be detected. The PC microarray provides a general and easy-to-use method for the timely monitoring and eventual control of the global coronavirus pandemic.
Acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), influenza A virus (Flu A), and influenza B virus (Flu B) are highly contagious pathogens that can cause similar clinical manifestations and often co-infect, posing significant challenges for differential diagnosis and disease management. Early and accurate detection of these viruses is crucial for curbing their respiratory transmission. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a reliable, rapid, sensitive, and user-friendly tool for detecting multiple respiratory pathogens. Here, we present a triple-channel immunochromatographic system (TCIS) based on quantum dot fluorescent microspheres (QDFM), which includes immunochromatographic test strips and a detection platform integrated with optical and electronic modules. The TCIS utilizes a smartphone for fluorescence image extraction and filtering algorithms, enabling automatic image denoising and quantitative data analysis. Combined with high quantum yield luminescent materials, the system significantly enhances detection sensitivity. The limits of detection (LODs) for Flu B nucleoprotein, Flu A nucleoprotein, and SARS-CoV-2 N protein were as low as 0.301 ng/mL, 0.227 ng/mL, and 0.348 ng/mL, respectively. To evaluate its clinical performance, we tested saliva samples from 15 Flu A patients and 20 healthy controls, demonstrating a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 95.2%. This work highlights the potential of TCIS as an efficient, accessible, and accurate home-based diagnostic tool, offering a promising solution for early diagnosis.