Simple and Versatile Detection of Viruses Using Anodized Alumina Membranes

A simple sensor for viral particles based on ionic conductivity through anodized alumina membranes was demonstrated using MS2 bacteriophage as an example. A facile two-point measuring scheme is geared toward realization using a computer's sound card input/output capabilities suitable for a fast and inexpensive point of care testing. The lowest detection concentration down to ~7 pfu/mL and a large dynamic range up to ~2000 pfu/mL were obtained due to physical optimization that included proper length and diameter for the pores, removing the oxide layer at the electrode, as well as the chemical optimization of covalent binding of antibodies to the pore's walls.