Development of a Nanoparticle-Based Portable Sensor for the Rapid and Highly Sensitive Detection of the Dengue Virus in Mosquito

Dengue, a disease transmitted mostly from mosquito bites, is a leading cause of serious illness and death in developing countries, including the Philippines. Dengue prevention and control solely depends on effective vector control measures and/or detection methods, but dengue detection kits are not affordable or always accessible.   Current techniques require a relatively high level of technical skill, equipment, and are time-consuming. The University of the Philippines is developing a portable sensor for the detection of the dengue virus in mosquito (the vector), to facilitate active monitoring and surveillance of this neglected tropical disease. The sensor can be easily used in remote and rural areas in the country by both high and low income Filipinos.