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Toward non-invasive diagnostics through AuNSs@Nano-MIP biosensor for sensitive lactoferrin detection in sweat
Zahra Baharlouei1, Fathallah Karimzadeh2, Alireza Sanati3
1Department of Materials Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, 84156-83111, Iran; Biosensor Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran; Laboratory of Advanced Biotechnologies for Health Assessments (Lab-HA), Lassonde School of Engineering, York University, Toronto, M3J 1P3, ON, Canada; Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS), Lassonde School of Engineering, York University, Toronto, M3J 1P3, ON, Canada.
This study introduces a novel biosensor for detecting lactoferrin (LF) in sweat, offering a non-invasive method for monitoring inflammatory conditions. The wearable technology uses gold nanostars and a molecularly imprinted polymer for sensitive and reproducible LF detection.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Biosensor Development
Background:
- Lactoferrin (LF) is linked to inflammatory disorders like IBD, autoimmune diseases, and cancers.
- Current detection methods may be invasive or lack sensitivity for real-time monitoring.
- There is a need for non-invasive, wearable technologies to track inflammatory biomarkers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel biomimetic biosensor for the non-invasive detection of lactoferrin (LF) in human sweat.
- To utilize gold nanostars (AuNSs) and molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) for enhanced biosensor performance.
- To validate the biosensor's efficacy in complex biological matrices and assess its potential for wearable health monitoring.
Main Methods:
- Synthesized gold nanostars (AuNSs) via a cost-effective one-step method.
- Fabricated an electrochemical biosensor incorporating AuNSs and a MIP layer selective for LF.
- Designed a microfluidic patch for sweat collection from multiple body regions.
- Validated sensor performance using TEM, FTIR, and CV, and tested in spiked PBS and sweat samples.
Main Results:
- The AuNS-MIP biosensor demonstrated reliable electrochemical detection of LF in sweat.
- Achieved high sensitivity (2.54 μA mL/ng in PBS, 2.30 μA mL/ng in sweat) across a concentration range of 2-2000 ng/mL.
- Obtained a low limit of detection (LOD) of 1.74 ng/mL in PBS and 1.92 ng/ng/mL in sweat.
- Exhibited excellent reproducibility with relative standard deviation (RSD) <5% across multiple devices.
Conclusions:
- The developed biomimetic biosensor offers a promising platform for non-invasive, sweat-based LF detection.
- This wearable technology could provide valuable insights into disease recurrence and progression for inflammatory and immune-related disorders.
- The study represents a significant step towards affordable, wearable biosensors for real-time health monitoring.
