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Detection of plant virus particles with a capacitive field-effect sensor
Melanie Jablonski1,2, Arshak Poghossian3, Michael Keusgen2
1Institute of Nano- and Biotechnologies, FH Aachen, Heinrich-Mußmann-Str. 1, 52428, Jülich, Germany.
Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry
|July 10, 2021
Summary
This study presents a novel biosensor for early plant virus detection. The field-effect sensor accurately detects tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) at low concentrations, aiding in crop protection.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Biotechnology
- Sensor Technology
Background:
- Plant viruses cause significant global crop losses and economic damage.
- Early and on-site detection of plant viral diseases is crucial for effective crop management.
- Portable biosensors offer a promising solution for rapid diagnostics in the field.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize a label-free biosensor for detecting tobacco mosaic virus (TMV).
- To evaluate the sensitivity and performance of a SiO2-gate electrolyte-insulator-semiconductor (EIS) sensor for TMV detection.
- To investigate factors influencing sensor performance, such as ionic strength and particle adsorption.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a field-effect SiO2-gate electrolyte-insulator-semiconductor (EIS) sensor.
- Employed the constant-capacitance method for sensor characterization.
- Assessed TMV particle density using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and determined isoelectric point via zeta potential measurements.
Main Results:
- The EIS sensor successfully detected biotinylated TMV particles at concentrations as low as 0.025 nM.
- A strong correlation was observed between EIS sensor signals and TMV particle density on the sensor surface.
- Isoelectric point of TMV particles was determined, and the effect of ionic strength on sensor response was analyzed.
Conclusions:
- The developed EIS biosensor demonstrates high sensitivity and potential for on-site, early detection of plant viruses like TMV.
- This technology can contribute to reducing crop losses and improving agricultural productivity.
- Further studies can optimize sensor design and application for diverse plant pathogens.
