RNA is the genetic material of this virus. The RNA molecules of the virus are surrounded by a protein envelope and when a sample is taken from someone infected with the virus, the first challenge is to “unpack” the RNA so that it can be analyzed. Our researchers have developed a lysis buffer with a specific combination of polar solvents, buffers, salts and other chemicals that may open the virus without damaging the RNA. Once the RNA is released from the virus, it must be extracted from the solution using magnetic nanoparticles before it can be analyzed . Our solution is silica-coated iron-oxide nanoparticles with a high affinity to RNA. Once the magnetic nanoparticles have bound to the viral RNA, it can be removed from the solution using a magnet.