Nanobiosensor developed for the detection of SARS-CoV-2

It is now known from numerous studies that so-called POC lateral flow tests (LFT) are a good and accurate alternative to reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, the commonly known PCR tests, for the detection of SARS-CoV-2. The many advantages of LFT over PCR tests include rapid detection, on-site testing, low cost and operation without laboratory equipment.nbsp;

The main disadvantage of POC biosensors, however, is that their sensitivity depends on the viral load. At a high viral load, the sensitivity is 100 per cent, whereas at a low viral load the sensitivity can fall below 10 per cent. This can lead to false-negative tests. The aim of the HZDR scientists was to develop sensor systems that can also be used to detect low viral loads and deliver fast and accurate results. Larysa Baraban at the Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research used nanowires made of gold, which can be used to detect various biomolecules such as enzymes, proteins and antibodies. This procedure was combined with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, a method that provides information on various processes at the interface between the electrode and electrolyte, including charge transfer, diffusion transport and the formation of an electrical double layer, as well as on the properties of the measuring system, such as solution resistance and roughness or porosity of the electrode surface.

„In our work, we have developed a nanoscopic biosensor chip consisting of six pairs of interlocking gold nanodevices for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 antigens and antibodies," Baraban describes the project. „This makes it possible to detect both COVID-19-associated antigens and corresponding antibodies that occur during and after infection with the virus. We assume that the method can also be transferred to other biomarkers and pathogens. The functional layer that targets the biomolecule must be modified accordingly.“ 

Considerations and discussions are currently underway with the industry as to how the sensor can be produced in large quantities at a favourable price.

This measure is co-financed by tax revenue on the basis of the budget approved by the Saxon state parliament.

Press release of the "idw - Informationsdienst Wissenschaft" from 27 March 2023