Sensor-enabled Neuraminidase Detection for Influenza Surveillance

SENSE-FLU develops taste-based influenza diagnostics accessible to everyone, anywhere, at any time, with readouts transformed into next-generation digital forecasting tools to help control future flu outbreaks. This is achieved through the rational design and virological validation of bitter-taste-releasing sensor molecules that instantly and robustly signal infection via the patient’s tongue. The evidence-based development of these devices aims to enable the global marketing of low-cost self-tests. Research data and crowdsourced taste events will be integrated into online learning analytics through web-based interfaces, establishing an artificial-intelligence-driven diagnostic platform. Our long-term goal is to enable crowdsourced reporting that provides real-time information on influenza activity and accurate, geospatial, and temporal risk predictions.