A Yokohama firm started by Riken unveiled a compact device on Thursday that can check whether a person is infected with the novel coronavirus in about 40 minutes.
The device, developed by K.K. Dnaform, is portable and does not take up much space even if hundreds of units are placed in a row. It is expected to be useful at events and other social occasions.
Measuring 11 centimeters high, 12 centimeters wide and 4 centimeters deep, the virus testing device can produce results in about 40 minutes after inserting a special cartridge containing a person's saliva and other specimens.
The device employs the SmartAmp method, which is as accurate as a PCR test. SmartAmp is an isothermal DNA amplification technology that was jointly developed by Riken and Dnaform.
The new device will eliminate the need to bring specimens to a facility with special equipment. The testing has often been carried out at laboratories.
"We want to use this device for infection testing to help restore social activities after vaccinations have progressed," said Dnaform Representative Director Yoshihide Hayashizaki.
The device will be used to check the infection status of athletes on the day before the All Japan Fencing Championship to be held in Tokyo on Nov. 6.
After verifying its effectiveness, the company aims to commercialize it as soon as possible.
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