Early Detection of Multiple Sclerosis Using Spectroscopic Epstein-Barr Virus Biosensors Based on Infection Mechanism...

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Nanotechnology
• Virology

Background:

• The link between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and multiple sclerosis (MS) highlights the need for early EBV detection.
• Asymptomatic EBV detection is significant for understanding disease pathogenesis and progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a spectroscopic/colorimetric biosensor for practical and early screening of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
• To replicate the virus's natural infection mechanism for enhanced detection sensitivity.

Main Methods:

• Functionalization of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with the B cell surface protein CD21 to mimic host cell receptors.
• Spectroscopic analysis of the interaction between CD21-functionalized AuNPs (CD21@AuNP) and EBV surface glycoprotein gp350 via absorbance measurements.
• Optimization of experimental parameters, including incubation temperature and time, to improve assay performance.

Main Results:

• The biosensor demonstrated a visible color change upon interaction with EBV.
• Optimized conditions yielded a linear detection range of 10-100 ng/mL.
• Achieved a low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.0279 ng/mL and limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.0848 ng/mL, with a relative standard deviation of 0.848%.

Conclusions:

• The developed EBV biosensor shows high sensitivity and robustness, validated with human saliva samples.
• The sensor's ability to mimic natural infection mechanisms offers potential for real-world diagnostic applications.
• This technology holds promise for early and practical screening of EBV infections.