Breakthrough Smartphone-Based Self-Test for COVID-19

Sanofi and California-based Luminostics have signed an agreement to evaluate a collaboration on a unique self-test for COVID-19. Luminostics would contribute its proprietary technology for consumer-diagnostics for COVID-19 testing while Sanofi would bring its clinical research testing experience and capabilities.

The goal of the collaboration is to provide a consumer-based test that can detect the COVID-19 virus with high sensitivity and specificity from respiratory samples. The total time from specimen collection to results is expected to be in the range of 30 minutes or less. The test is based on Luminostics’ unique technology that utilizes a consumer smartphone’s optics, controlled by an iOS/Android app paired with an inexpensive adapter, in combination with “glow-in-the-dark” nanochemistry and signal processing artificial intelligence.

The diagnostic platform is composed of three components: an iOS/Android app which instructs the user on how to run the test, captures and processes data, displays test results, and connects the user with a telehealth service based on the results; a reusable adapter compatible with most types of smartphones; and consumables for specimen collection, preparation and processing.

Based on Luminostics’ existing technology and protypes, both companies envision starting development activities in the coming weeks. In parallel, both parties expect to execute a final collaboration agreement including a plan for accelerated ramp up of necessary manufacturing capabilities. If development activities can be successfully conducted, the aim is to have an OTC self-testing solution ready before the end of 2020, subject to obtaining required regulatory clearances. (Source: Sanofi Website, 19 April, 2020)