Qizhong Liang, a PhD candidate at CU Boulder, has developed a groundbreaking laser-based breathalyzer capable of detecting COVID-19 through breath analysis. Each exhalation releases over 1,000 molecules that create a unique “breathprint.” Scientists have explored using olfactory senses from dogs and other animals for disease detection, but CU Boulder, in collaboration with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), has advanced this further by reporting high accuracy in COVID-19 detection.
Their technology utilizes frequency comb spectroscopy, enhanced by AI and improved sensitivity, allowing for real-time, non-invasive diagnosis. In tests with CU Boulder students, the breathalyzer achieved 85% accuracy compared to traditional PCR tests, demonstrating its potential for broader medical applications.
The researchers are now focused on miniaturizing the device for everyday use, which could revolutionize health monitoring, facilitating instant health assessments akin to taking your height or weight. They envision the breathalyzer eventually aiding in the early detection of diseases like pancreatic cancer. The study’s implications extend to improving understanding of illnesses and exploring how breath analysis can inform immune responses and nutritional deficiencies. The findings were published in the Journal of Breath Research and funded by NIH and NSF.
