Khaberni - As winter approaches, bringing with it a wave of respiratory diseases including influenza, COVID-19, and colds, doctors face difficulty in distinguishing between the similar symptoms of these viruses. However, a German research team has announced an unconventional innovation that may change the available diagnostic methods.
The research team, led by Lorenz Meinel, Professor of Pharmacy and Biopharmaceutics at the University of Würzburg in Germany, stated that the aim of the study was to move beyond relying on complex devices and develop a diagnostic tool accessible to everyone anytime and anywhere. He said, "We have moved from traditional detection devices to a simple detector that uses the tongue," according to the British newspaper "The Sun".
How does the gum work?
The innovation relies on a molecular sensor that releases the flavor of thyme (thymol) when it comes into contact with the influenza virus.
The sensor utilizes a viral protein called neuraminidase, which the virus uses to penetrate cells. The researchers crafted a substance similar to the virus's natural substrate and attached thymol molecules to it. When the virus is present in the mouth, it activates the release of these molecules, making the taste detectable by the tongue.
Promising results
After developing the sensor, the researchers tested its effectiveness in human saliva samples infected with influenza, and noted the release of the thyme flavor within just 30 minutes. The next step, according to the research team, is to conduct clinical trials on humans within two years to confirm the results, whether before or after symptoms appear.
The researchers believe that integrating this sensor into gum or lozenges could provide a quick and easy means for home testing, especially in high-risk environments such as schools and hospitals. Meinel said, "This sensor could be an accessible and effective tool for protecting people before they transmit the infection."
Compared to current tests
Currently, influenza detection relies on nasal swabs using what are known as Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests (RIDT), which detect the virus protein in less than 30 minutes, and are available in pharmacies or online. However, these tests require medical tools and may be less convenient than chewing a piece of gum.
Flu symptoms according to the British Health Authority
According to the National Health Service (NHS), influenza symptoms appear quickly and include:
A sudden increase in temperature
Body aches and severe fatigue
Dry cough and sore throat
Headaches and sleep disturbances
Loss of appetite and stomach pain or diarrhea
Feeling nauseous or vomiting
The scientists hope that this innovation will help reduce the transmission of infections, especially in the early stages where symptoms are not clearly visible.
