Sensing performance of protein C immuno-biosensor for biological samples and sensor minimization

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Protein C (PC) is a critical anticoagulant and antithrombotic factor in human plasma.
• PC deficiency can lead to serious clotting disorders impacting physiological functions.
• Accurate and timely diagnosis of PC deficiency is essential for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a fiber-optic biosensor for real-time quantification of Protein C levels.
• To assess the biosensor's performance in various biological matrices, including human plasma, cell culture broth, and animal milk.
• To optimize the biosensor for sensitivity, reusability, and practical application.

Main Methods:

• Development of a fiber-optic biosensor for Protein C detection.
• Testing the biosensor with human plasma, animal cell culture broth, and bovine milk samples.
• Optimization of biosensor length and evaluation of different elution buffers for reusability.

Main Results:

• The biosensor demonstrated signal intensity of 30% in human plasma compared to a buffered sample, attributed to viscosity.
• Feasible detection of PC was achieved in cell culture broth (80% signal) and bovine milk (60-78% signal).
• Reducing biosensor length to 6 cm maintained sensitivity, and triethylamine elution buffer enhanced reusability from 2.5 to 7 cycles.

Conclusions:

• The developed fiber-optic biosensor is a viable tool for real-time Protein C level monitoring.
• The biosensor shows adaptability for analyzing PC in diverse biological samples beyond human plasma.
• Optimizations in sensor design and regeneration protocols enhance its practical utility and reusability.