Listening to viruses: New light-based method detects viral sounds
Do viruses make sounds? It turns out they do, and scientists have developed a method to detect the acoustic vibrations of viruses using light. This discovery could have a significant impact on medicine and the food industry. It could aid in detecting harmful pathogens and even cancer cells.
Scientists at Michigan State University have developed an innovative method to detect the acoustic vibrations of individual virus particles using light. Although we cannot hear these sounds, they can be used in biological research. How is it possible for such tiny organisms to make sounds? It is not due to their structure but rather physics since every movement of atoms emits sound. Even though viruses cannot be seen with the naked eye, they are complex entities composed of a vast number of atoms.
Do viruses make sounds?
Dr Elad Harel, the study's author, emphasises that this method allows for the study of viruses in their natural environment. This makes it possible to quickly and accurately analyse their behaviour without the need for complex labelling. This streamlines the entire process, reduces costs, and, in the future, will also facilitate studying bacteria or detecting cancer cells.
The main method of biological research is the labelling of tissues and cells, which on an elementary level looks quite similar. To differentiate various types of cells within an organ or distinguish healthy tissue from diseased, labelling is used. This is most commonly done with proteins that stand out with different colours or other measurable properties. Based on these markers, analysts can form an image of the composition of a given biological sample.
Revolution in treating viral infections
BioSonics, the new research method, enables real-time observation of what a single virus particle does. This can help in understanding how viruses function and how their replication can be disrupted by new antiviral drugs. The technology may also be used to create non-invasive sensors for detecting viruses from a distance. This will enable monitoring of food safety or airport security checks.
Although the research is still in its early stages, its potential is enormous. This method may also aid in distinguishing active and inactive virus particles, which is crucial in diagnosing infections.
