Rapid detection of herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 using a G-quadruplex aptamer-based biosensor

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Molecular Diagnostics
• Virology

Background:

• Herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2) are common human pathogens causing oral and genital herpes.
• Conventional diagnostic methods like ELISA and PCR are costly and slow, necessitating improved detection techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and validate a specific G-quadruplex aptamer for the rapid and simple detection of HSV-1 and HSV-2.
• To develop a novel diagnostic approach utilizing aptamer-functionalized gold nanoparticles.

Main Methods:

• Bioinformatics tools were used to design a G-quadruplex aptamer targeting the glycoprotein gD of HSV-1 and HSV-2.
• Aptamer AptNR88 was selected based on stability and molecular docking, then experimentally validated using gold nanoparticles and a colorimetric assay.
• Optimization of aptamer concentration for salt-induced aggregation resistance was performed.

Main Results:

• The AptNR88 aptamer demonstrated specific binding to the gD of HSV-1 and HSV-2.
• A colorimetric shift from red to purple in gold nanoparticles indicated the presence of the virus-aptamer complex within 15 minutes.
• The limit of detection was as low as 11.7 copies/ml for HSV-1 and 15.7 copies/ml for HSV-2.

Conclusions:

• The developed G-quadruplex aptamer, AptNR88, provides a highly sensitive and specific diagnostic tool for HSV-1 and HSV-2.
• This aptamer-based colorimetric assay offers a simple, rapid, and cost-effective alternative to traditional herpes virus detection methods.