Archive · 2 Jun 2025
US Scientists Develop Portable Device for Rapid Virus Detection
Scientists in the US have invented a new tool called LUCAS that can quickly find viruses in your body, like the ones that cause COVID-19, HIV, and hepatitis.
LUCAS works like a special light that helps doctors see if you're sick.
It's much better than older tests because it gives a brighter, longer-lasting signal, making it easier to find tiny amounts of viruses in blood or other samples.
The tool is fast, usually taking less than 25 minutes, and it gives accurate results.
It's also small and easy to use, so it could be used in hospitals and in places without big labs.
The goal is to make it easier for everyone to get tested early for many illnesses.
US scientists created a new virus detection tool called LUCAS.
LUCAS uses light to quickly and accurately detect viruses in under 25 minutes.
The tool utilizes a natural enzyme to produce a brighter and longer-lasting signal.
LUCAS showed accurate results 94% of the time when testing for Covid-19, HIV, and hepatitis.
It is portable and easy to use, making it suitable for hospitals and remote areas.
- Who
- US scientists developed the tool.
- What
- A new virus detection tool called LUCAS was developed.
- When
- Published June 2, 2025
- Where
- The research was conducted in the US.
- Why
- To enable rapid and accurate detection of viruses such as Covid-19, HIV and hepatitis.
- Device Name
- Luminescence CAscade-based Sensor
- Test Time
- Under 25 minutes
- Accuracy Rate
- 94%
- Tested Viruses
- Covid-19, HIV, Hepatitis B and C
- Lead Research Institution
- Mass General Brigham