Atmospheric Virus Detection Using Smartphone-based Biosensors: A Conceptual Framework and Future Directions
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46610/RTSST.2026.v03i01.003Keywords:
Airborne pathogens, Artificial intelligence, Atmospheric virus detection, IoT integration, Microfluidics, Nanotechnology, Public health surveillance, Signal transduction, Smartphone-based biosensorsAbstract
The global impact of airborne viral diseases, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and various respiratory pathogens, has emphasized the pressing requirement for rapid, accessible, and scalable detection technologies capable of real-time monitoring in everyday environments. Conventional approaches, such as RT-PCR and ELISA, while highly accurate, depend on centralized laboratories, specialized equipment, and extended processing times, which hinder prompt outbreak responses and limit deployment in resource-constrained or remote settings. Smartphone-based biosensors present a promising alternative by harnessing the near-universal availability of smartphones, along with their integrated cameras, processors, and connectivity features, to enable point-of-care atmospheric virus detection. This study proposes a comprehensive conceptual framework that integrates microfluidic systems for efficient aerosol and droplet sampling, highly specific biorecognition elements such as aptamers and antibodies, sensitive signal transduction mechanisms, including optical and electrochemical methods enhanced by nanomaterials, and artificial intelligence-driven data processing for reliable interpretation and reduced false positives. By addressing critical challenges like low viral concentrations, environmental interferences, and bioreceptor stability through nanotechnology and machine learning, the framework achieves projected detection times of 10–15 minutes, costs below $5-per-test, and exceptional portability. Potential applications encompass public health surveillance, continuous environmental monitoring, and personalized diagnostics, while future directions highlight wearable integrations, IoT-enabled networked systems, and scalable manufacturing to bolster global pandemic preparedness.
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