7 - Nanotechnology advancements in detecting pathogenic human RNA viruses

Abstract

Viral diagnostic methods are crucial for healthcare systems, aiding in specific antigen detection, disease severity assessment, treatment, and controlling virus prevalence. Globally, diagnostic methods using viral RNA, antigens, and antibodies vary in cost and availability. Amid emerging viruses, diagnostics and public health management pose challenges. Human-pathogenic RNA viruses exhibit diversity and epidemiological significance. Among 223 identified human RNA viruses, only 33 are actively monitored due to transmission modes and research focus. RNA virus diversity stems from immune selection and transmission relationships. Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) viruses emerged from +RNA viruses, and −RNA viruses evolved from dsRNA viruses. Metagenomics uncovers novel RNA virus groups in diverse hosts. Existing pathogenic RNA virus detection includes electron microscopy, serological assays, immunosensors, cell culture, and nucleic acid methods. Nanotechnology revolutionizes diagnostics and drug delivery. Nanoparticles offer low toxicity, enhanced solubility, sensitivity, stability, and controlled reactions. They enhance drug solubility, sensitivity, stability, and selectivity. This chapter highlights nanotechnology's role in detecting human pathogenic RNA viruses. It emphasizes nanotech's significance in toxicity reduction, solubility enhancement, sensitivity improvement, stability enhancement, and selective reactions. The review outlines trends in RNA virus detection via nanotechnology, detailing electrochemical and optical approaches. Notably, it covers prevalent RNA viruses (influenza, human immunodeficiency virus [HIV], Chikungunya, Zika, dengue, and hepatitis C) and their detection using nanotechnology for enhanced precision, sensitivity, and efficiency in diagnosis.