Belarus creates advanced biochip for rapid allergy diagnostics

Scientists in Belarus have developed an innovative biochip for allergy diagnostics, currently undergoing registration trials ahead of its planned introduction into clinical practice, reports BelTA, a partner of TV BRICS.

The technology, created by researchers at the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, enables rapid and highly accurate identification of allergens using a minimally invasive procedure.

The biochip contains around 200 microscopic markers, each embedded with a specific allergen. During testing, a small blood sample is applied to the chip alongside specialised reagents, allowing clinicians to identify the substances triggering allergic reactions.

The system is designed to detect a wide range of allergens, including pollen from plants, food allergens, insect venom and dust mites, providing a comprehensive diagnostic profile in a single test.

According to Andrey Goncharov, Director of the Institute of Biophysics and Cell Engineering, the technology offers a significant improvement over traditional methods in terms of speed, accuracy and patient comfort.

Developers emphasise that the test is painless, efficient and cost-effective, potentially making advanced allergy diagnostics more accessible. The domestic biochip is expected to be significantly more affordable than comparable international solutions, which remain costly for many patients.

The biochip is currently undergoing regulatory evaluation, with plans to introduce it into medical practice by the end of the year. Initially, testing will be conducted at specialised centres, with the longer-term goal of expanding availability to laboratories across the country.

Researchers also highlight the flexibility of the technology, noting that the allergen panel can be adapted to suit different regions. This opens up opportunities for international deployment, as the chip can be customised to reflect local allergen profiles in various parts of the world.