China: developments in new technology for virus detection in just 5 minutes

In a significant advancement for agricultural technology, an innovative Rapid Diagnostic Kit for seed potato has been presented by the city of Chongqing, China, developed by Professor Lyu Dianqiu and his team. This marks a significant step forward in combating potato viruses, offering a quick and efficient solution that was not previously available in the domestic market. 

Professor Lyu Dianqiu, the chief expert of the Chongqing Potato Industry Technology System Innovation Team:

 

"We have spent four years independently developing this series of products."

A Leap in Rapid Testing

The kit, a result of four years of dedicated research, utilizes immunological antibodies derived from biotechnology and innovative nano-microsphere materials. It stands out for its ability to deliver test results in just 5 minutes, a stark contrast to the slower traditional methods.

This rapid diagnostic tool is not only simple to operate but also boasts high sensitivity, specificity, and cost-effectiveness, making it ideal for field testing. 

Professor Lyu stated that the kit is simple to operate, highly sensitive, specific, and cost-effective, making it particularly suitable for field testing.

His team has developed four types of virus nano-simulated enzyme immunoassay kits, including for PVX and PVY, which are ten times more sensitive than colloidal gold test strips.

 

The potato seed rapid diagnostic kit produced results quickly.

Enhancing Potato Yield and Quality

Chongqing, known as China’s sixth-largest potato planting area, has historically faced challenges in ensuring the quality of seed potatoes due to the absence of effective detection technology.

This has led to significant yield losses ranging from 10% to 20% or more. The introduction of this rapid diagnostic kit is set to revolutionize the industry by reducing disease occurrences and pesticide use, thereby promoting greener and healthier potato production. 

The improved testing methods are expected to enhance the quality of Chongqing’s potato seeds, leading to increased yields and economic benefits.

Global Reach and Impact

The kit has already seen widespread adoption in various potato enterprises and scientific research institutes across several provinces in China.

In a move that underscores its global significance, the team has supplied 1,000 test kits to countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, including Kazakhstan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. 

 

Researchers observed the growth of seed potatoes in the laboratory.