Development of a Highly Sensitive SPR Biosensor for BCR-ABL Gene Sequence Detection Using a Novel Gold...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology
• Molecular Diagnostics

Background:

• Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensors offer rapid DNA detection but struggle with low detection limits for specific gene targets.
• Existing SPR biosensors for BCR-ABL gene detection lack the sensitivity to reliably identify sub-nanomolar concentrations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel signal-enhancement strategy for SPR DNA biosensors using gold nanoparticles (AuNPs).
• To improve the sensitivity and accuracy of detecting BCR-ABL fusion gene oligonucleotides.

Main Methods:

• A sandwich assay format was employed, utilizing AuNP-modified oligonucleotides as signal labels.
• The synthesis of monodisperse gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) via citrate reduction of AuCl3 was optimized to prevent aggregation.
• Analytical performance of the AuNP-labeled SPR biosensor was evaluated for BCR-ABL target detection.

Main Results:

• The AuNP-labeled SPR biosensor achieved a significantly lower detection limit of 80 pM compared to 50 nM for traditional label-free SPR biosensors.
• The developed biosensor demonstrated a substantial reduction in measurement error for BCR-ABL target detection.
• Optimized AuNP synthesis ensured monodisperse size distribution and prevented aggregation, crucial for reliable labeling.

Conclusions:

• The AuNP-based sandwich assay is a highly effective approach for amplifying signals in SPR DNA biosensors, enabling sensitive genetic marker detection.
• This AuNP-labeled DNA biosensing strategy shows promise for enhancing sensitivity in various DNA hybridization-based SPR applications.
• The method provides a significant advancement for sensitive and accurate detection of genetic biomarkers like BCR-ABL.