Using Cell Membranes as Recognition Layers to Construct Ultrasensitive and Selective Bioelectronic Affinity Sensors

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Biosensor Technology
• Surface Chemistry

Background:

• Conventional immunosensors face challenges in fabrication and nonspecific adsorption.
• Antibody-based recognition layers require complex, multi-step surface modifications.
• Complex biological samples often lead to biofouling and reduced sensor performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel bioelectronic affinity sensor utilizing natural cell membranes.
• To overcome limitations of traditional immunosensors, including lengthy fabrication and nonspecific binding.
• To create a robust platform for sensitive protein detection and biofouling prevention.

Main Methods:

• Employed a one-step coating process of electrochemical transducers with human macrophage (MΦ) and red blood cell (RBC) membranes.
• Utilized natural protein receptors on MΦ membranes for target antigen capture.
• Leveraged RBC membranes to effectively prevent nonspecific adsorption from sample matrices.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated a highly sensitive detection of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) cytokine.
• Achieved a remarkable limit of detection of 150 pM for TNF-α.
• Successfully integrated natural cell membranes with electronic transduction for synergistic biosensing.

Conclusions:

• The developed bioelectronic affinity sensor offers a simplified fabrication process compared to conventional methods.
• The combined MΦ and RBC membranes provide selective protein recognition and effective biofouling prevention.
• This cell membrane-based biosensor platform shows significant potential for diverse biosensing applications.