Gold Nanocluster-Based Nanozyme for High-Throughput Colorimetric Detection of SARS-CoV-2

There is an urgent need for efficient and convenient methods to detect SARS-CoV-2 as the global pandemic continues. Currently, detection of COVID-19 relies primarily on reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR), a laboratory-based method that is time-consuming. To tackle this challenge, the study proposes an immediate high-throughput detection platform for SARS-CoV-2. The platform uses a gold nanoenzymatic colorimetric assay that focuses on the specific detection of 3CLpro in SARS-CoV-2. The platform has been extensively characterized for stability, sensitivity, detection range, and response time. The colorimetric detection method not only provides easy-to-read results but also allows color readings to be taken using a smartphone, with accuracy comparable to that of large instruments such as a microplate reader. The innovation of this technology lies in the ability to achieve instant high-throughput detection, which makes rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 feasible. The proposed detection platform has a wide range of potential applications, particularly in the field of virus detection, providing an efficient and reliable solution for managing current pandemics and future disease prevention and control.