Design of immunoassay based biosensor platforms for SARS-CoV-2 detection using highly specific monoclonal antibodies

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Immunology
• Biosensor technology

Background:

• The global SARS-CoV-2 pandemic necessitates rapid and accurate diagnostic methods.
• Effective control of viral spread relies on early detection and identification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop specific monoclonal antibodies against the conserved nucleocapsid protein of SARS-CoV-2.
• To establish sensitive detection platforms, including a lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) and an amperometric biosensor, for SARS-CoV-2.

Main Methods:

• Development of high-affinity monoclonal antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein.
• Selection of optimal antibody pairs for assay development.
• Implementation of a lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA).
• Application of an amperometric biosensor utilizing unmodified screen-printed electrodes and magnetic bead preparation.

Main Results:

• The developed LFIA demonstrated detection of SARS-CoV-2 at 10^4 PFU/mL.
• The amperometric biosensor achieved a sensitive limit of detection (LOD) of 5.5 PFU/mL for inactivated SARS-CoV-2.
• Validated antibody pairs enable sensitive and selective detection.

Conclusions:

• The generated monoclonal antibodies are suitable for sensitive and selective SARS-CoV-2 detection.
• The developed LFIA and amperometric immunosensor platforms show promise for clinical diagnosis and pandemic surveillance.