A magnetic-levitation device has been developed to sort airborne viruses and bacteria, facilitating their subsequent analysis. This innovation enables quick and sensitive identification of potentially harmful microorganisms present in indoor air, addressing the limitations of conventional methods that are time-consuming or less effective at detecting small viruses.[1]

Figure 1. Airborne Viruses Are Separated and Sorted Using a Magnetic Levitation Apparatus

Figure 1 shows Researchers from Michigan State University and the University of British Columbia have created a system that utilizes magnetic levitation technology, similar to that used in high-speed trains, to rapidly and affordably detect airborne viruses. This innovative approach concentrates viruses from the air efficiently, potentially preventing future outbreaks of respiratory diseases. The technology offers real-time virus management and predictions, aiding in identifying contaminated environments before pandemics occur. Additionally, it could enhance tracking and tracing of virus exposure in public settings, offering valuable insights for health officials and epidemiologists. The study's findings were published in the journal ACS Nano.

In 2018, Sepideh Pak pours and Morteza Mahmoudi began applying magnetic levitation (maglev) technology to respiratory viruses. With the support of the Walsh Foundation and the New Frontiers in Research Fund, their project aimed to address the high prevalence of indoor respiratory virus infections. When the COVID-19 pandemic emerged and highlighted the significance of airborne viruses, their efforts intensified. Their system involves collecting air samples, which are then introduced into a fluid were maglev technology separates viruses from other particles. The isolated viral content is subsequently analysed using standard techniques, providing identification within minutes. The simplicity of the process makes it feasible for use in various settings by non-experts, including clinics and airports.

The researchers are working on refining their technology, with plans to distinguish between different viruses during the maglev step and enhance sensitivity to detect viruses in lower air concentrations. The team believes their approach could revolutionize disease detection and virus purification, opening up new possibilities across diverse fields in analytical biochemistry.

A fruitful test flight for the levitation of viruses

Magnetic levitation, commonly associated with high-speed trains, has been successfully adapted for scientific use, including in the field of biology. This technology uses magnets to counteract gravitational pull, allowing objects to float above surfaces without friction. While magnetic levitation has been applied to living cells in the past decade, its application to viruses is relatively recent.

In collaboration, researchers Sepideh Pak pour and Morteza Mahmoudi demonstrated that magnetic levitation could be extended to proteins in blood plasma to identify indicators of conditions like opioid use and multiple sclerosis. This success prompted them to explore its potential for viruses. Viruses primarily consist of proteins, which can be levitated using this technique. Despite initial challenges, the researchers modified the maglev system to accommodate submicron-sized viruses, adjusting liquid solutions to be compatible with viral samples [2]. The use of magnetic levitation in virus analysis represents a significant advancement, allowing for quicker and more efficient detection and analysis of airborne viruses.

References:

1. https://www.newscientist.com/article/2384112-magnetic-levitation-device-separates-and-sorts-viruses-from-the-air/
2. https://phys.org/news/2023-08-magnetic-levitation-enables-early-airborne.html

Cite this article:

Janani R (2023), Airborne Viruses Are Separated and Sorted Using a Magnetic Levitation Apparatus, Anatechmaz, pp.475