There's already a test that can determine most of the viruses you've ever had in your life, and it costs no more than $30.
Every person is exposed to different types of viruses all throughout his or her life. While some of these harmful microorganisms can be killed by the immune system, others become successful to cause infection or even life-threatening diseases. More studies also show they may trigger disorders including autoimmune diseases and cancer.
Although you may be aware that you have a virus based on your symptoms and results of your tests, you don't really know their name, more so keep track of how many you get in a lifetime.
But a test called VirScan can do that for you.
The straightforward exam can detect the presence of around a thousand strains that can have an impact to human beings. The program, developed by Stephen Elledge, a professor of genetics in Harvard, requires only a drop of the patient's blood.
But how does the test do it? It relies on certain immune system cells, primarily T and B cells, which are the most active when trying to prevent infection. After they have killed a virus, they actually keep a "record" of it. Thus, the next time the virus enters the body, the cells have the correct defense plan ready.
The test, which is expected to cost only $25, is now described as revolutionary. Doctors can now provide a more accurate diagnosis and a better health picture of the patient. Viruses that can remain dormant for years such as hepatitis C or HIV can already be determined. Treatments therefore become timelier, further improving the life of the patients.
VirScan can also be used for research, including how various viruses can all together create more complex conditions.
Since the test is in its early stages, there are a few kinks to iron like its inability to detect low-level viruses. Nevertheless, the researchers are hoping this will be available very soon.
