Real-world evaluation of a QCM-based biosensor for exhaled air

Abstract

The biosensor, named “virusmeter” in this study, integrates quartz crystal microbalance technology with an immune-functionalized chip to distinguish between symptomatic patients with respiratory diseases and healthy individuals by analyzing exhaled air samples. Renowned for its compact design, rapidity, and noninvasive nature, this device yields results within a 5-min timeframe. Evaluated under controlled conditions with 54 hospitalized symptomatic COVID-19 patients and 128 control subjects, the biosensor demonstrated good overall sensitivity (98.15%, 95% CI 90.1–100.0) and specificity (96.87%, 95% CI 92.2–99.1). This proof-of-concept presents an innovative approach with significant potential for leveraging piezoelectric sensors to diagnose respiratory diseases. Graphical abstract