The RSV Rapid Test is an immunochromatographic membrane assay that uses highly sensitive monoclonal antibodies to detect the F protein antigen of Respiratory Syncytial Virus. The test device is composed of the following three parts, namely sample pad, reagent pad and reaction membrane. The whole strip is fixed inside a plastic device. The reagent membrane contains the colloidal-gold conjugated with the monoclonal antibodies against Respiratory Syncytial Virus F protein;the reaction membrane contains the secondary antibodies for Respiratory Syncytial Virus, and the polyclonal antibodies against the mouse globulin, which are pre-immobilized on the membrane. When the sample is added into the sample window,conjugates dried in the reagent pad are dissolved and migrate along with the sample. If Respiratory Syncytial Virus is present in the sample, a complex formed between the anti-Respiratory Syncytial Virus conjugate and the virus will be caught by the specific anti- Respiratory Syncytial Virus monoclonal coated on the T region. Results appear in 15 minutes in the form of a red line that develops on the strip. Whether the sample contains the virus or not, the solution continues to migrate to encounter another reagent (an anti-mouse IgG antibody) that binds the remaining conjugates, thereby producing a red line on the region C.
