On-Chip NADH Detection in Multicellular Models Using an AlGaN/GaN Photodetector Array with Enhanced Sensitivity

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry
• Biophysics

Background:

• Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is crucial for cellular redox reactions, energy metabolism, and cancer.
• Existing NADH detection methods often rely on complex optical measurements.
• There is a need for rapid, sensitive, and miniaturized NADH quantification techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a miniaturized, on-chip photoelectric sensor array for sensitive NADH quantification.
• To utilize AlGaN/GaN two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) photodetectors for NADH detection.
• To provide an advanced platform for biomedical research and clinical diagnostics.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a miniaturized photoelectric sensor array using AlGaN/GaN 2DEG photodetectors.
• Exploitation of the absorbance difference between NADH and NAD+ for quantification.
• Testing the sensor's performance with 3D multicellular models.

Main Results:

• The developed sensor exhibits ultralow dark current and ultrahigh UV light responsivity.
• Achieved rapid and sensitive NADH detection, outperforming commercial assays.
• Successfully detected NADH levels in complex 3D multicellular models.

Conclusions:

• The AlGaN/GaN 2DEG photodetector-based sensor offers a significant advancement in NADH quantification.
• The sensor platform holds potential for high-throughput testing and point-of-care diagnostics.
• This approach addresses the demand for efficient NADH sensing in biomedical and clinical settings.