Microfluidic thread-based electrochemical aptasensor for rapid detection of Vibrio parahaemolyticus

Area of Science:

• Biosensing and diagnostics
• Microfluidics
• Nanomaterials for electrochemical sensing

Background:

• Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a primary cause of seafood-associated gastroenteritis.
• Traditional detection methods (culture, ELISA, PCR) are slow, labor-intensive, or require expensive equipment.
• There is a need for rapid, sensitive, and accessible pathogen detection in seafood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and fabricate a thread-based microfluidic electrochemical aptasensor for Vibrio parahaemolyticus detection.
• To evaluate the sensor's sensitivity, specificity, and speed compared to conventional methods.
• To demonstrate the potential for broader pathogen detection using this platform.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of microfluidic channels and electrodes on threads.
• Utilizing label-free aptamer immunosensing technology.
• Incorporation of Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanosheets to enhance electrochemical signal.
• Testing the aptasensor with Vibrio parahaemolyticus samples.

Main Results:

• The aptasensor achieved a dynamic detection range of 10-10^6 CFU mL^-1.
• A low detection limit of 5.74 CFU mL^-1 was obtained.
• The sensor demonstrated higher sensitivity and significantly reduced assay time (30 min) compared to plate counting.
• High specificity and accuracy were maintained.

Conclusions:

• The developed microfluidic thread-based electrochemical aptasensor enables rapid and highly sensitive detection of Vibrio parahaemolyticus.
• This platform offers advantages over traditional methods in terms of speed and ease of use.
• The adaptable design holds potential for detecting other foodborne pathogens.