Virus MIP-composites for SARS-CoV-2 detection in the aquatic environment.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Biotechnology
• Sensor Technology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, highlights the need for effective environmental monitoring.
• Current testing methods may be insufficient in certain areas, necessitating advanced detection techniques.
• Environmental surveillance can enhance disease control measures and inform public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present an electrochemical polymer composite biosensor for detecting SARS-CoV-2 whole-virus particles in environmental settings.
• To assess the specificity and sensitivity of the developed biosensor for SARS-CoV-2 detection.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of an electrochemical biosensor utilizing a sensitized layer composed of molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) composites with inactivated SARS-CoV-2.
• Testing the biosensor's response to SARS-CoV-2 and negative controls, including H5N1 influenza A virus and non-imprinted polymers (NIPs).
• Evaluation of sensor performance in buffer and environmental water samples, determining detection limits and linearity.

Main Results:

• The biosensor demonstrated specific signaling for SARS-CoV-2, with significantly lower responses to H5N1 influenza A virus and NIPs.
• Detection of SARS-CoV-2 at concentrations as low as 0.1 femtomolar (fM) in buffer.
• Successful detection in reservoir water samples with a 3 log-scale linearity, indicating environmental applicability.

Conclusions:

• The developed electrochemical polymer composite biosensor is a promising tool for sensitive and specific environmental monitoring of SARS-CoV-2.
• This technology can contribute to improved disease control by providing an effective method for detecting the virus in various environmental matrices.
• The sensor's high sensitivity and specificity offer a valuable advancement for environmental surveillance of SARS-CoV-2.