Introduction to Medical Devices: Sensors for the Pandemics

A set of vocabulary flashcards derived from the lecture notes on medical devices and their applications in diagnosing conditions, particularly related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

IVD

In Vitro Diagnostic devices used for diagnosing diseases and conditions, based on specimens collected from the human body.

Electrochemical Sensors

Devices that measure biochemical reactions via electrical signals.

PCR

Polymerase Chain Reaction, a method for amplifying DNA sequences.

Antigen Test

A diagnostic test that detects specific proteins from the Coronavirus.

RNA Extraction

The process of isolating RNA from biological samples.

Reverse Transcription

The process of generating complementary DNA (cDNA) from an RNA template.

RT-PCR

Reverse transcription followed by polymerase chain reaction for detecting viral RNA.

Nucleic Acids

Biopolymers essential to all known forms of life, including DNA and RNA.

Cyanosis

A physical sign causing bluish discoloration of the skin due to low oxygen.

Denaturation

The process in which the double helix structure of DNA is broken down.

Hybridization

The process where complementary single-stranded DNA binds to form a double-stranded molecule.

Lateral Flow Assay

A simple, rapid test that indicates the presence of a target analyte in a liquid sample.

Biosensor

A device that uses biological molecules to detect chemicals.

ELISA

Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay, a plate-based assay technique to detect and quantify substances.

Amperometric Enzyme Electrode

An electrode designed to measure the current produced by enzyme-catalyzed reactions.

PCR Test Turnaround Time

The time it takes to get results from PCR testing, generally 2-3 days.

Antibody Tests

Tests that detect the presence of antibodies in the blood to indicate exposure to the virus.

Molecular Tests

Tests that detect specific nucleic acid sequences associated with a pathogen.

Telemedicine

The remote diagnosis and treatment of patients through telecommunications technology.

Sensitivity

The ability of a test to correctly identify those with the condition.

Specificity

The ability of a test to correctly identify those without the condition.

Viral Antigen Detection

Identifying proteins produced by a virus as a diagnostic method.

Immunosensors

Sensors that use antibodies to detect specific antigens.

Biomarker

Biological molecules that indicate a medical state or condition.

Zoonotic Source

A disease that has jumped from animals to humans.

CRISPR

A gene-editing technology used for specific sequences in DNA.

Auxiliary Reagents

Substances used to enhance the activity of a primary reagent in a chemical reaction.

Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs)

Tests that give quick results typically at the point of care.

LAMP

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification, a technique for amplifying nucleic acids without thermal cycling.

SARS-CoV-2

The virus responsible for COVID-19.

Biomolecular Recognition

The interaction between biological molecules that leads to specific recognition.

In-home Testing

Diagnostic tests that can be performed by individuals in their homes.

FDA EUA

Emergency Use Authorization by the FDA for rapid approval of medical devices during public health emergencies.

Bioconjugation

The process of covalently attaching two biomolecules together.

Point of Care Testing

Diagnostic testing performed at or near the point of care, rather than in a centralized laboratory.

Healthcare Provider (HCP)

A person licensed to provide health care services.