SARS-CoV-2 detection with aptamer-functionalized gold nanoparticles

Abstract

A rapid detection test for SARS-CoV-2 is urgently required to monitor virus spread and containment. Here, we describe a test that uses nanoprobes, which are gold nanoparticles functionalized with an aptamer specific to the spike membrane protein of SARS-CoV-2. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay confirms aptamer binding with the spike protein on gold surfaces. Protein recognition occurs by adding a coagulant, where nanoprobes with no bound protein agglomerate while those with sufficient bound protein do not. Using plasmon absorbance spectra, the nanoprobes detect 16 nM and higher concentrations of spike protein in phosphate-buffered saline. The time-varying light absorbance is examined at 540 nm to determine the critical coagulant concentration required to agglomerates the nanoprobes, which depends on the protein concentration. This approach detects 3540 genome copies/μl of inactivated SARS-CoV-2.

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© 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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DOI

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.talanta.2021.122841

Repository URI

http://eprints.gla.ac.uk/253694/