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Design and Development of Aptamer–Gold Nanoparticle Based Colorimetric Assays for In-the-field Applications
Published on: June 23, 2016
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Rapid detection of Brucella cells using a gold nanoparticle-based aptasensor via a simple colorimetric method
Azam Ahangari1, Pezhman Mahmoodi2, Mohammad Ali Zolfigol3
1Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
BMC Veterinary Research
|November 13, 2024
Summary
A novel aptasensor using gold nanoparticles detects Brucella bacteria rapidly and sensitively. This colorimetric biosensor offers a simple, cost-effective method for diagnosing Brucellosis, outperforming traditional PCR.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Biosensing
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Brucellosis is a significant global zoonotic disease caused by Brucella species.
- Rapid detection methods are crucial for preventing Brucellosis transmission and economic impact.
- Nanoparticle-based biosensors offer a promising avenue for swift pathogen identification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel colorimetric biosensor for detecting Brucella cells.
- To utilize gold nanoparticles (GNPs) functionalized with specific aptamers for enhanced detection.
- To establish a rapid and sensitive diagnostic tool for Brucellosis.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized gold nanoparticles (GNPs) and confirmed their properties using UV-Vis, FT-IR, TEM, and DLS.
- Functionalized GNPs with aptamers via electrostatic bonding.
- Developed a colorimetric assay utilizing the peroxidase-like activity of GNPs and TMB for Brucella detection.
Main Results:
- The aptasensor demonstrated a color change from red to purple in the presence of Brucella cells, indicating successful detection.
- Achieved high sensitivity, detecting as low as 1.5 × 10^1 CFU/mL of Brucella.
- Specificity was confirmed against various bacterial species.
- The aptasensor showed higher sensitivity than the PCR assay.
Conclusions:
- The developed aptasensor serves as a simple and rapid diagnostic tool for Brucella detection.
- This method eliminates the need for specialized expertise and expensive laboratory equipment.
- The aptasensor holds potential for widespread application in Brucellosis diagnostics.
