Simple and Ultrasensitive Nanozyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for SARS-CoV-2 Detection on a Syringe-Driven Filtration...

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Infectious Disease Diagnostics

Background:

• Accurate and rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 is crucial for controlling viral spread.
• Existing diagnostic methods may require complex procedures or specialized equipment.
• Development of point-of-care diagnostics is essential for widespread accessibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simple, ultrasensitive, and rapid nanozyme-based immunoassay for SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein (NP) detection.
• To integrate the assay onto a filtration device for point-of-care applications.
• To achieve quantitative detection of SARS-CoV-2 NP within 80 minutes.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of gold core porous platinum shell nanoparticles (Au@Pt NPs) with high catalytic activity.
• Development of a filtration device utilizing size differences for separation.
• Utilizing a colorimetric reaction with 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) for signal generation.
• Employing a plastic syringe for a rapid washing procedure.

Main Results:

• Quantitative detection of SARS-CoV-2 NP achieved within 80 minutes.
• Limit of detection (LOD) for SARS-CoV-2 antigen was 0.01 ng/mL in buffer.
• Assay demonstrated high precision with coefficients of variation below 2.34% for various concentrations.
• Verified specificity against other respiratory viruses.

Conclusions:

• The proposed nanozyme immunoassay on a filtration device offers a simple, rapid, and ultrasensitive method for SARS-CoV-2 NP detection.
• This technology holds promise for point-of-care diagnostics and advancing virus immunodetection.
• The system's efficiency and effectiveness can significantly contribute to public health surveillance and management.