Researchers from Eindhoven University of Technology (The Netherlands) and Keio University (Japan) have developed a practicable and reliable way to test for infectious diseases.

The test shows the presence of infectious diseases by searching for certain antibodies in the blood that our body makes in response to infectious agents, for example, viruses and bacteria.

The test involves the use of a paper strip on which a drop of blood is applied. A biochemical reaction causes the underside of paper to emit blue-green light. The bluer the color, the higher the concentration of antibodies. A digital camera, for example from a mobile phone, is sufficient to determine the exact color and thus the result.

The color is created due to thr presence of a luminous sensor within the paper strip. After a droplet of blood comes onto the paper, this protein triggers a reaction in which blue light is produced.

The research group expects the test to be commercially available within a few years.