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Liu Z, Huang S, Yan Y, Pang W, Zhong F, Huang Q, Caddeo F, Zhang M, Jin M, Shui L. Multiplex signal amplification for ultrasensitive CRP assay via integrated electrochemical biosensor array using MOF-derived carbon material and aptamers. Talanta 2024; 272:125735. [PMID: 38364556 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2024.125735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Accurate and precise detection of disease-associated proteins, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), remains a challenge in biosensor development. Herein, we present a novel approach-an integrated disposable aptasensor array-designed for precise, ultra-sensitive, and parallel detection of CRP in plasma samples. This integrated biosensing array platform enables multiplex parallel testing, ensuring the accuracy and reliability in sample analysis. The ultra-sensitivity of this biosensor is achieved through multiplex signal amplification. Leveraging the superior conductivity and extensive surface area of MOF-derived nanoporous carbon material (CMOF), the biosensor enhances recognition elements (aptamers) by catalyzing the horseradish peroxidase (HRP) label enzyme reaction to multiply the number of probe molecules. Optimized conditions yielded exceptional performance, exhibiting high accuracy (relative standard deviation, RSD≤10.0 %), a low detection limit (0.3 pg/mL, S/N = 3), ultra-sensitivity (0.16 μA/ng mL-1 mm-2), and a rapid response (seven parallel tests within 60 min). Importantly, this multi-unit integrated disposable aptasensor array accurately quantified CRP in human serum, demonstrating comparable results to commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This technology showcases promise for detecting various biomarkers using a unified approach, presenting an appealing strategy for early disease diagnosis and biological analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenping Liu
- Joint Laboratory of Optofluidic Technology and System, National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; University of Hamburg, Institute for Nanostructure and Solid-State Physics, Center for Hybrid Nanostructures, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Shuqing Huang
- Joint Laboratory of Optofluidic Technology and System, National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Yu Yan
- Joint Laboratory of Optofluidic Technology and System, National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Wenbin Pang
- Joint Laboratory of Optofluidic Technology and System, National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Fenqing Zhong
- Joint Laboratory of Optofluidic Technology and System, National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Qiuju Huang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules Research and Evaluation, College of Pharmacy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, PR China.
| | - Francesco Caddeo
- University of Hamburg, Institute for Nanostructure and Solid-State Physics, Center for Hybrid Nanostructures, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Minmin Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Functional Materials and Devices, School of Information and Optoelectronic Science and Engineering, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Mingliang Jin
- Joint Laboratory of Optofluidic Technology and System, National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; International Academy of Optoelectronics at Zhaoqing, South China Normal University, Zhaoqing, 526238, PR China.
| | - Lingling Shui
- Joint Laboratory of Optofluidic Technology and System, National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Nanophotonic Functional Materials and Devices, School of Information and Optoelectronic Science and Engineering, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
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2
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Papamatthaiou S, Boxall-Clasby J, Douglas EJA, Jajesniak P, Peyret H, Mercer-Chalmers J, Kumar VKS, Lomonossoff GP, Reboud J, Laabei M, Cooper JM, Kasprzyk-Hordern B, Moschou D. LoCKAmp: lab-on-PCB technology for <3 minute virus genetic detection. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:4400-4412. [PMID: 37740394 PMCID: PMC10563828 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00441d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
The recent COVID-19 outbreak highlighted the need for lab-on-chip diagnostic technology fit for real-life deployment in the field. Existing bottlenecks in multistep analytical microsystem integration and upscalable, standardized fabrication techniques delayed the large-scale deployment of lab-on-chip solutions during the outbreak, throughout a global diagnostic test shortage. This study presents a technology that has the potential to address these issues by redeploying and repurposing the ubiquitous printed circuit board (PCB) technology and manufacturing infrastructure. We demonstrate the first commercially manufactured, miniaturised lab-on-PCB device for loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) genetic detection of SARS-CoV-2. The system incorporates a mass-manufactured, continuous-flow PCB chip with ultra-low cost fluorescent detection circuitry, rendering it the only continuous-flow μLAMP platform with off-the-shelf optical detection components. Ultrafast, SARS-CoV-2 RNA amplification in wastewater samples was demonstrated within 2 min analysis, at concentrations as low as 17 gc μL-1. We further demonstrate our device operation by detecting SARS-CoV-2 in 20 human nasopharyngeal swab samples, without the need for any RNA extraction or purification. This renders the presented miniaturised nucleic-acid amplification-based diagnostic test the fastest reported SARS-CoV-2 genetic detection platform, in a practical implementation suitable for deployment in the field. This technology can be readily extended to the detection of alternative pathogens or genetic targets for a very broad range of applications and matrices. LoCKAmp lab-on-PCB chips are currently mass-manufactured in a commercial, ISO-compliant PCB factory, at a small-scale production cost of £2.50 per chip. Thus, with this work, we demonstrate a high technology-readiness-level lab-on-chip-based genetic detection system, successfully benchmarked against standard analytical techniques both for wastewater and nasopharyngeal swab SARS-CoV-2 detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sotirios Papamatthaiou
- Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK.
| | | | | | - Pawel Jajesniak
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, James Watt School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Hadrien Peyret
- Department of Biochemistry and Metabolism, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Colney, NR4 7UH, UK
| | - June Mercer-Chalmers
- Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK.
| | - Varun K S Kumar
- Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK.
| | - George P Lomonossoff
- Department of Biochemistry and Metabolism, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Colney, NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Julien Reboud
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, James Watt School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Maisem Laabei
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Jonathan M Cooper
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, James Watt School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Despina Moschou
- Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK.
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3
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Binder P, Oberhaus FV. Straightforward fabrication of electrochemical aptasensors with outstanding antifouling performance. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1274:341575. [PMID: 37455085 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.341575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) are popular tools for many different applications - SAMs of commercially available chemicals that convincingly inhibit unspecific binding for electrochemical sensors, however, have yet to be developed. While adsorption of foulants prohibits the reliable analysis of biological samples, unspecific binding of the analyte similarly impedes the investigation of binding characteristics from buffer solutions. In this communication, diglycolamine is introduced for the modification of electrodes with outstanding antifouling performance. The presented sensor design, solely consisting of diglycolamine and an aptamer of choice, convinces with its ease of preparation, low cost, and, most importantly, an exceptional specificity. The latter was found to rely on a gentle but potent cleaning of the electrodes, as only our optimized cleaning procedure granted the diglycolamine layer its excellent fouling minimization performance, while literature standard protocols failed to do so. Each step of the sensor fabrication protocol was optimized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, while square-wave voltammetry, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, and zeta potential measurement were performed for further characterization. The presented approach of surface modification with diglycolamine is a versatile method applicable not just to electrochemical measurements, but to a variety of other detection techniques, too, and has the potential to change the way we investigate binding characteristics and fabricate sensors for the analysis of complex biological samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Binder
- Institute for Bioprocessing and Analytical Measurement Techniques, Rosenhof, 37308, Heilbad, Heiligenstadt, Germany
| | - Franziska V Oberhaus
- Institute for Bioprocessing and Analytical Measurement Techniques, Rosenhof, 37308, Heilbad, Heiligenstadt, Germany.
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Zambry NS, Awang MS, Beh KK, Hamzah HH, Bustami Y, Obande GA, Khalid MF, Ozsoz M, Manaf AA, Aziah I. A label-free electrochemical DNA biosensor used a printed circuit board gold electrode (PCBGE) to detect SARS-CoV-2 without amplification. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:1622-1636. [PMID: 36786757 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc01159j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) motivates continuous efforts to develop robust and accurate diagnostic tests to detect severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Detection of viral nucleic acids provides the highest sensitivity and selectivity for diagnosing early and asymptomatic infection because the human immune system may not be active at this stage. Therefore, this work aims to develop a label-free electrochemical DNA biosensor for SARS-CoV-2 detection using a printed circuit board-based gold substrate (PCBGE). The developed sensor used the nucleocapsid phosphoprotein (N) gene as a biomarker. The DNA sensor-based PCBGE was fabricated by self-assembling a thiolated single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) probe onto an Au surface, which performed as the working electrode (WE). The Au surface was then treated with 6-mercapto-1-hexanol (MCH) before detecting the target N gene to produce a well-oriented arrangement of the immobilized ssDNA chains. The successful fabrication of the biosensor was characterized using cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The DNA biosensor performances were evaluated using a synthetic SARS-CoV-2 genome and 20 clinical RNA samples from healthy and infected individuals through EIS. The developed DNA biosensor can detect as low as 1 copy per μL of the N gene within 5 minutes with a LOD of 0.50 μM. Interestingly, the proposed DNA sensor could distinguish the expression of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in a patient diagnosed with COVID-19 without any amplification technique. We believe that the proposed DNA sensor platform is a promising point-of-care (POC) device for COVID-19 viral infection since it offers a rapid detection time with a simple design and workflow detection system, as well as an affordable diagnostic assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nor Syafirah Zambry
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.
| | - Mohd Syafiq Awang
- Collaborative Microelectronic Design Excellence Center (CEDEC), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Sains@USM, Level 1, Block C, No. 10 Persiaran Bukit Jambul, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
| | - Khi Khim Beh
- Collaborative Microelectronic Design Excellence Center (CEDEC), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Sains@USM, Level 1, Block C, No. 10 Persiaran Bukit Jambul, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
| | - Hairul Hisham Hamzah
- School of Chemical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
| | - Yazmin Bustami
- School of Biological Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Minden, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Godwin Attah Obande
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Federal University of Lafia, Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria
| | - Muhammad Fazli Khalid
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.
| | - Mehmet Ozsoz
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Near East University, 99138 Nicosia, Turkey
| | - Asrulnizam Abd Manaf
- Collaborative Microelectronic Design Excellence Center (CEDEC), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Sains@USM, Level 1, Block C, No. 10 Persiaran Bukit Jambul, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
| | - Ismail Aziah
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.
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Williamson P, Piskunen P, Ijäs H, Butterworth A, Linko V, Corrigan DK. Signal Amplification in Electrochemical DNA Biosensors Using Target-Capturing DNA Origami Tiles. ACS Sens 2023; 8:1471-1480. [PMID: 36914224 PMCID: PMC10152479 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.2c02469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemical DNA (e-DNA) biosensors are feasible tools for disease monitoring, with their ability to translate hybridization events between a desired nucleic acid target and a functionalized transducer, into recordable electrical signals. Such an approach provides a powerful method of sample analysis, with a strong potential to generate a rapid time to result in response to low analyte concentrations. Here, we report a strategy for the amplification of electrochemical signals associated with DNA hybridization, by harnessing the programmability of the DNA origami method to construct a sandwich assay to boost charge transfer resistance (RCT) associated with target detection. This allowed for an improvement in the sensor limit of detection by two orders of magnitude compared to a conventional label-free e-DNA biosensor design and linearity for target concentrations between 10 pM and 1 nM without the requirement for probe labeling or enzymatic support. Additionally, this sensor design proved capable of achieving a high degree of strand selectivity in a challenging DNA-rich environment. This approach serves as a practical method for addressing strict sensitivity requirements necessary for a low-cost point-of-care device.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Williamson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1QE, United Kingdom
| | - Petteri Piskunen
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland
| | - Heini Ijäs
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland.,Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Geschwister-Scholl-Platz 1, 80539 Munich, Germany
| | - Adrian Butterworth
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1QE, United Kingdom
| | - Veikko Linko
- Biohybrid Materials, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland.,LIBER Center of Excellence, Aalto University, 00076 Aalto, Finland.,Institute of Technology, University of Tartu, Nooruse 1, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Damion K Corrigan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G1 1QE, United Kingdom.,Department of Pure & Applied Chemistry, Thomas Graham Building, University of Strathclyde, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, United Kingdom
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6
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Wang Y, Yan T, Mei K, Rao D, Wu W, Chen Y, Peng Y, Wang J, Wu S, Zhang Q. Nanomechanical assay for ultrasensitive and rapid detection of SARS-CoV-2 based on peptide nucleic acid. NANO RESEARCH 2023; 16:1183-1195. [PMID: 35610981 PMCID: PMC9118818 DOI: 10.1007/s12274-022-4333-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The massive global spread of the COVID-19 pandemic makes the development of more effective and easily popularized assays critical. Here, we developed an ultrasensitive nanomechanical method based on microcantilever array and peptide nucleic acid (PNA) for the detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA. The method has an extremely low detection limit of 0.1 fM (105 copies/mL) for N-gene specific sequence (20 bp). Interestingly, it was further found that the detection limit of N gene (pharyngeal swab sample) was even lower, reaching 50 copies/mL. The large size of the N gene dramatically enhances the sensitivity of the nanomechanical sensor by up to three orders of magnitude. The detection limit of this amplification-free assay method is an order of magnitude lower than RT-PCR (500 copies/mL) that requires amplification. The non-specific signal in the assay is eliminated by the in-situ comparison of the array, reducing the false-positive misdiagnosis rate. The method is amplification-free and label-free, allowing for accurate diagnosis within 1 h. The strong specificity and ultra-sensitivity allow single base mutations in viruses to be distinguished even at very low concentrations. Also, the method remains sensitive to fM magnitude lung cancer marker (miRNA-155). Therefore, this ultrasensitive, amplification-free and inexpensive assay is expected to be used for the early diagnosis of COVID-19 patients and to be extended as a broad detection tool. ELECTRONIC SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIAL Supplementary material (experimental section, N gene sequences and all nucleic acid sequences used in the study, Figs. S1-S6, and Tables S1-S3) is available in the online version of this article at 10.1007/s12274-022-4333-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Material, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027 China
| | - Tianhao Yan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Material, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027 China
| | - Kainan Mei
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Material, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027 China
| | - Depeng Rao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Material, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027 China
| | - Wenjie Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Material, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027 China
| | - Ye Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Material, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027 China
| | - Yongpei Peng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Material, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027 China
| | - Jianye Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022 China
| | - Shangquan Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Material, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027 China
| | - Qingchuan Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mechanical Behavior and Design of Material, Department of Modern Mechanics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027 China
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Papamatthaiou S, Moschou D. Innovative Quantification of Critical Quality Attributes. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1420:97-115. [PMID: 37258786 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-30040-0_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Potency testing is an important part of the evaluation of cellular therapy products. In vitro quantification of identified quality-related biomarkers is a technique often used at the laboratory. Nonetheless, the limited stability of most cellular therapy products, the lot variability and the limited time within which to perform testing are currently hindering their widespread use. Fortunately, within the last two decades, the evolution of material technology and miniaturisation processes has enabled the research community to shift the spotlight of attention towards the Lab-on-Chip concept for diagnostic applications. Such devices enable portable, rapid, sensitive, automated and affordable biochemical analyses aiming to advance the healthcare services across a broad application spectrum. However, it could be argued that the aspirations on their affordability are far from being exceeded, mainly due to the lack of a practical manufacturing technology. The Lab-on-Printed Circuit Board (Lab-on-PCB) approach has demonstrated enormous potential for developing economical diagnostic platforms leveraging the advantage provided by economy of scale manufacturing of the long-standing PCB industry. The integration capabilities that the PCB platform introduces to the Lab-on-Chip concept concerning the electronics and microfluidics seem to be unique. In this chapter, we will be reviewing the progress of Lab-on-PCB prototypes quantifying within miniaturised microchips a range of critical quality attributes with potential in potency testing. We will focus on their technology and applications whilst addressing the potential of this approach in practical use and commercialisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sotirios Papamatthaiou
- Centre for Biosensors, Bioelectronics and Biodevices (ToC3Bio) and Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Despina Moschou
- Centre for Biosensors, Bioelectronics and Biodevices (ToC3Bio) and Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering, University of Bath, Bath, UK.
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8
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Toldrà A, Ainla A, Khaliliazar S, Landin R, Chondrogiannis G, Hanze M, Réu P, Hamedi MM. Portable electroanalytical nucleic acid amplification tests using printed circuit boards and open-source electronics. Analyst 2022; 147:4249-4256. [PMID: 35993403 PMCID: PMC9511072 DOI: 10.1039/d2an00923d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
The realization of electrochemical nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) at the point of care (POC) is highly desirable, but it remains a challenge given their high cost and lack of true portability/miniaturization. Here we show that mass-produced, industrial standardized, printed circuit boards (PCBs) can be repurposed to act as near-zero cost electrodes for self-assembled monolayer-based DNA biosensing, and further integration with a custom-designed and low-cost portable potentiostat. To show the analytical capability of this system, we developed a NAAT using isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification, bypassing the need of thermal cyclers, followed by an electrochemical readout relying on a sandwich hybridization assay. We used our sensor and device for analytical detection of the toxic microalgae Ostreopsis cf. ovata as a proof of concept. This work shows the potential of PCBs and open-source electronics to be used as powerful POC DNA biosensors at a low-cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Toldrà
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10044, Sweden.
| | - Alar Ainla
- International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, 4715-330 Braga, Portugal
| | - Shirin Khaliliazar
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10044, Sweden.
| | - Roman Landin
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10044, Sweden.
| | - Georgios Chondrogiannis
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10044, Sweden.
| | - Martin Hanze
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10044, Sweden.
| | - Pedro Réu
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10044, Sweden.
| | - Mahiar M Hamedi
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm 10044, Sweden.
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9
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A lab-on-a-chip for the concurrent electrochemical detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA and anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in saliva and plasma. Nat Biomed Eng 2022; 6:968-978. [PMID: 35941191 PMCID: PMC9361916 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-022-00919-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Rapid, accurate and frequent detection of the RNA of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) and of serological host antibodies to the virus would facilitate the determination of the immune status of individuals who have Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), were previously infected by the virus, or were vaccinated against the disease. Here we describe the development and application of a 3D-printed lab-on-a-chip that concurrently detects, via multiplexed electrochemical outputs and within 2 h, SARS-CoV-2 RNA in saliva as well as anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulins in saliva spiked with blood plasma. The device automatedly extracts, concentrates and amplifies SARS-CoV-2 RNA from unprocessed saliva, and integrates the Cas12a-based enzymatic detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA via isothermal nucleic acid amplification with a sandwich-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay on electrodes functionalized with the Spike S1, nucleocapsid and receptor-binding-domain antigens of SARS-CoV-2. Inexpensive microfluidic electrochemical sensors for performing multiplexed diagnostics at the point of care may facilitate the widespread monitoring of COVID-19 infection and immunity. A 3D-printed lab-on-a-chip allows for the concurrent rapid electrochemical detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in saliva and of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in saliva spiked with blood plasma.
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10
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Mahmoud A, Moaaz E, Rezk M, Abdel-Moety E, Fayed A. Microfabricated Solid‐Contact Potentiometric Sensor for Determination of Tedizolid Phosphate, Application to Content Uniformity Testing. ELECTROANAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/elan.202200115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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11
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Perdigones F, Quero JM. Printed Circuit Boards: The Layers’ Functions for Electronic and Biomedical Engineering. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:mi13030460. [PMID: 35334752 PMCID: PMC8952574 DOI: 10.3390/mi13030460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
This paper describes the fabrication opportunities that Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) offer for electronic and biomedical engineering. Historically, PCB substrates have been used to support the components of the electronic devices, linking them using copper lines, and providing input and output pads to connect the rest of the system. In addition, this kind of substrate is an emerging material for biomedical engineering thanks to its many interesting characteristics, such as its commercial availability at a low cost with very good tolerance and versatility, due to its multilayer characteristics; that is, the possibility of using several metals and substrate layers. The alternative uses of copper, gold, Flame Retardant 4 (FR4) and silver layers, together with the use of vias, solder masks and a rigid and flexible substrate, are noted. Among other uses, these characteristics have been using to develop many sensors, biosensors and actuators, and PCB-based lab-on chips; for example, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) amplification devices for Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). In addition, several applications of these devices are going to be noted in this paper, and two tables summarizing the layers’ functions are included in the discussion: the first one for metallic layers, and the second one for the vias, solder mask, flexible and rigid substrate functions.
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Urbano-Gámez JD, Valdés-Sánchez L, Aracil C, de la Cerda B, Perdigones F, Plaza Reyes Á, Díaz-Corrales FJ, Relimpio López I, Quero JM. Biocompatibility Study of a Commercial Printed Circuit Board for Biomedical Applications: Lab-on-PCB for Organotypic Retina Cultures. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:1469. [PMID: 34945319 PMCID: PMC8707730 DOI: 10.3390/mi12121469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Printed circuit board (PCB) technology is well known, reliable, and low-cost, and its application to biomedicine, which implies the integration of microfluidics and electronics, has led to Lab-on-PCB. However, the biocompatibility of the involved materials has to be examined if they are in contact with biological elements. In this paper, the solder mask (PSR-2000 CD02G/CA-25 CD01, Taiyo Ink (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China) of a commercial PCB has been studied for retinal cultures. For this purpose, retinal explants have been cultured over this substrate, both on open and closed systems, with successful results. Cell viability data shows that the solder mask has no cytotoxic effect on the culture allowing the application of PCB as the substrate of customized microelectrode arrays (MEAs). Finally, a comparative study of the biocompatibility of the 3D printer Uniz zSG amber resin has also been carried out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús David Urbano-Gámez
- Electronic Technology Group, Department of Electronic Engineering, Higher Technical School of Engineering, University of Seville, Avda. de los Descubrimientos sn, 41092 Seville, Spain; (J.D.U.-G.); (F.P.); (J.M.Q.)
| | - Lourdes Valdés-Sánchez
- Department of Regeneration and Cell Therapy, Andalusian Molecular Biology and Regenerative Medicine Centre (CABIMER), Avda. Américo Vespucio 24, 41092 Seville, Spain; (L.V.-S.); (Á.P.R.); (F.J.D.-C.)
| | - Carmen Aracil
- Electronic Technology Group, Department of Electronic Engineering, Higher Technical School of Engineering, University of Seville, Avda. de los Descubrimientos sn, 41092 Seville, Spain; (J.D.U.-G.); (F.P.); (J.M.Q.)
| | - Berta de la Cerda
- Department of Regeneration and Cell Therapy, Andalusian Molecular Biology and Regenerative Medicine Centre (CABIMER), Avda. Américo Vespucio 24, 41092 Seville, Spain; (L.V.-S.); (Á.P.R.); (F.J.D.-C.)
| | - Francisco Perdigones
- Electronic Technology Group, Department of Electronic Engineering, Higher Technical School of Engineering, University of Seville, Avda. de los Descubrimientos sn, 41092 Seville, Spain; (J.D.U.-G.); (F.P.); (J.M.Q.)
| | - Álvaro Plaza Reyes
- Department of Regeneration and Cell Therapy, Andalusian Molecular Biology and Regenerative Medicine Centre (CABIMER), Avda. Américo Vespucio 24, 41092 Seville, Spain; (L.V.-S.); (Á.P.R.); (F.J.D.-C.)
| | - Francisco J. Díaz-Corrales
- Department of Regeneration and Cell Therapy, Andalusian Molecular Biology and Regenerative Medicine Centre (CABIMER), Avda. Américo Vespucio 24, 41092 Seville, Spain; (L.V.-S.); (Á.P.R.); (F.J.D.-C.)
| | - Isabel Relimpio López
- RETICS Oftared, Carlos III Institute of Health (Spain), Ministry of Health RD16/0008/0010, University Hospital Virgen Macarena, Avda. Dr. Fedriani, 3, 41009 Seville, Spain;
| | - José Manuel Quero
- Electronic Technology Group, Department of Electronic Engineering, Higher Technical School of Engineering, University of Seville, Avda. de los Descubrimientos sn, 41092 Seville, Spain; (J.D.U.-G.); (F.P.); (J.M.Q.)
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13
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Mirzajani H, Cheng C, Vafaie RH, Wu J, Chen J, Eda S, Aghdam EN, Ghavifekr HB. Optimization of ACEK-enhanced, PCB-based biosensor for highly sensitive and rapid detection of bisphenol a in low resource settings. Biosens Bioelectron 2021; 196:113745. [PMID: 34753078 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.113745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we developed a low-cost and easy-to-use capacitive biosensor employing printed-circuit-board (PCB)-based technique for electrode fabrication and a specific alternative current (AC) signal for AC Electrokinetics (ACEK) effect excitation. Fast, accurate, and highly sensitive detection and quantification of bisphenol A (BPA) was achieved. An easy characterization of the biofunctionalization process is introduced by measuring interfacial capacitance which is simple and superior to most of methods currently in use. The frequency and amplitude of the AC signal used for capacitive interrogation were optimized to achieve maximum interfacial capacitance and maximum sensitivity. To evaluate the performance of the developed biosensor, its operation was compared with in-house microfabricated and commercially available electrodes. The limit-of-detection (LOD) obtained using the PCB-based electrodes was found to be at least one order of magnitude lower than that obtained with the commercial and in-house microfabricated electrodes. The linear range for BPA detection was wide from 1 fM to 10 pM with an LOD of 109.5 aM and sample to result in 20s. The biosensor operation was validated by spike-and-recovery tests of BPA using commercial food samples. Thus, the platform has a potential as an on-site detection of bisphenol A in low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadi Mirzajani
- The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, 1520 Middle Drive, Knoxville, TN, 37966, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Koç University, Rumelifeneri Yolu, Sarıyer, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey; Sahand University of Technology, Department of Electrical Engineering, Microelectronics Research Lab., Tabriz, Iran
| | - Cheng Cheng
- The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, 1520 Middle Drive, Knoxville, TN, 37966, USA; School of Engineering and Computer Science, Morehead State University, 150 University Blvd., Morehead, KY, 40351, USA
| | | | - Jayne Wu
- The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, 1520 Middle Drive, Knoxville, TN, 37966, USA.
| | - Jiangang Chen
- The University of Tennessee, Department of Public Health, 1914 Andy Holt Avenue, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Shigotoshi Eda
- University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture, Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, 2505 E. J. Chapman Drive, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Esmaeil Najafi Aghdam
- Sahand University of Technology, Department of Electrical Engineering, Microelectronics Research Lab., Tabriz, Iran
| | - Habib Badri Ghavifekr
- Sahand University of Technology, Department of Electrical Engineering, Microelectronics Research Lab., Tabriz, Iran
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14
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Semi-Automatic Lab-on-PCB System for Agarose Gel Preparation and Electrophoresis for Biomedical Applications. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:mi12091071. [PMID: 34577715 PMCID: PMC8467303 DOI: 10.3390/mi12091071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In this paper, a prototype of a semi-automatic lab-on-PCB for agarose gel preparation and electrophoresis is developed. The dimensions of the device are 38 × 34 mm2 and it includes a conductivity sensor for detecting the TAE buffer (Tris-acetate-EDTA buffer), a microheater for increasing the solubility of the agarose, a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor for controlling the temperature, a light dependent resistor (LDR) sensor for measuring the transparency of the mixture, and two electrodes for performing the electrophoresis. The agarose preparation functions are governed by a microcontroller. The device requires a PMMA structure to define the wells of the agarose gel, and to release the electrodes from the agarose. The maximum voltage and current that the system requires are 40 V to perform the electrophoresis, and 1 A for activating the microheater. The chosen temperature for mixing is 80 ∘C, with a mixing time of 10 min. In addition, the curing time is about 30 min. This device is intended to be integrated as a part of a larger lab-on-PCB system for DNA amplification and detection. However, it can be used to migrate DNA amplified in conventional thermocyclers. Moreover, the device can be modified for preparing larger agarose gels and performing electrophoresis.
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15
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Multiplexed Prostate Cancer Companion Diagnostic Devices. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21155023. [PMID: 34372259 PMCID: PMC8347987 DOI: 10.3390/s21155023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) remains one of the most prominent forms of cancer for men. Since the early 1990s, Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) has been a commonly recognized PCa-associated protein biomarker. However, PSA testing has been shown to lack in specificity and sensitivity when needed to diagnose, monitor and/or treat PCa patients successfully. One enhancement could include the simultaneous detection of multiple PCa-associated protein biomarkers alongside PSA, also known as multiplexing. If conventional methods such as the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) are used, multiplexed detection of such protein biomarkers can result in an increase in the required sample volume, in the complexity of the analytical procedures, and in adding to the cost. Using companion diagnostic devices such as biosensors, which can be portable and cost-effective with multiplexing capacities, may address these limitations. This review explores recent research for multiplexed PCa protein biomarker detection using optical and electrochemical biosensor platforms. Some of the novel and potential serum-based PCa protein biomarkers will be discussed in this review. In addition, this review discusses the importance of converting research protocols into multiplex point-of-care testing (xPOCT) devices to be used in near-patient settings, providing a more personalized approach to PCa patients’ diagnostic, surveillance and treatment management.
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16
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Zupančič U, Rainbow J, Estrela P, Moschou D. Utilising Commercially Fabricated Printed Circuit Boards as an Electrochemical Biosensing Platform. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:mi12070793. [PMID: 34357203 PMCID: PMC8305449 DOI: 10.3390/mi12070793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Printed circuit boards (PCBs) offer a promising platform for the development of electronics-assisted biomedical diagnostic sensors and microsystems. The long-standing industrial basis offers distinctive advantages for cost-effective, reproducible, and easily integrated sample-in-answer-out diagnostic microsystems. Nonetheless, the commercial techniques used in the fabrication of PCBs produce various contaminants potentially degrading severely their stability and repeatability in electrochemical sensing applications. Herein, we analyse for the first time such critical technological considerations, allowing the exploitation of commercial PCB platforms as reliable electrochemical sensing platforms. The presented electrochemical and physical characterisation data reveal clear evidence of both organic and inorganic sensing electrode surface contaminants, which can be removed using various pre-cleaning techniques. We demonstrate that, following such pre-treatment rules, PCB-based electrodes can be reliably fabricated for sensitive electrochemical biosensors. Herein, we demonstrate the applicability of the methodology both for labelled protein (procalcitonin) and label-free nucleic acid (E. coli-specific DNA) biomarker quantification, with observed limits of detection (LoD) of 2 pM and 110 pM, respectively. The proposed optimisation of surface pre-treatment is critical in the development of robust and sensitive PCB-based electrochemical sensors for both clinical and environmental diagnostics and monitoring applications.
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17
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Damiati S, Sopstad S, Peacock M, Akhtar AS, Pinto I, Soares RRG, Russom A. Flex Printed Circuit Board Implemented Graphene-Based DNA Sensor for Detection of SARS-CoV-2. IEEE SENSORS JOURNAL 2021; 21:13060-13067. [PMID: 35582203 PMCID: PMC8864937 DOI: 10.1109/jsen.2021.3068922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Since the COVID-19 outbreak was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) in March 2020, ongoing efforts have been made to develop sensitive diagnostic platforms. Detection of viral RNA provides the highest sensitivity and specificity for detection of early and asymptomatic infections. Thus, this work aimed at developing a label-free genosensor composed of graphene as a working electrode that could be embedded into a flex printed circuit board (FPCB) for the rapid, sensitive, amplification-free and label-free detection of SARS-CoV-2. To facilitate liquid handling and ease of use, the developed biosensor was embedded with a user-friendly reservoir chamber. As a proof-of-concept, detection of a synthetic DNA strand matching the sequence of ORF1ab was performed as a two-step strategy involving the immobilization of a biotinylated complementary sequence on a streptavidin-modified surface, followed by hybridization with the target sequence recorded by the differential pulse voltammetric (DPV) technique in the presence of a ferro/ferricyanide redox couple. The effective design of the sensing platform improved its selectivity and sensitivity and allowed DNA quantification ranging from 100 fg/mL to [Formula: see text]/mL. Combining the electrochemical technique with FPCB enabled rapid detection of the target sequence using a small volume of the sample (5-[Formula: see text]). We achieved a limit-of-detection of 100 fg/mL, whereas the predicted value was ~33 fg/mL, equivalent to approximately [Formula: see text] copies/mL and comparable to sensitivities provided by isothermal nucleic acid amplification tests. We believe that the developed approach proves the ability of an FPCB-implemented DNA sensor to act as a potentially simpler and more affordable diagnostic assay for viral infections in Point-Of-Care (POC) applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar Damiati
- Department of BiochemistryFaculty of ScienceKing Abdulaziz University Jeddah 21589 Saudi Arabia
- Division of NanobiotechnologyDepartment of Protein Science, Science for Life LaboratoryKTH Royal Institute of Technology 171 21 Stockholm Sweden
| | - Sindre Sopstad
- Department of MicrosystemsFaculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and MaritimeUniversity of South-Eastern Norway 3184 Borre Norway
| | | | - Ahmad S Akhtar
- Science for Life Laboratory, Division of NanobiotechnologyDepartment of Protein Science, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and HealthKTH Royal Institute of Technology 114 28 Stockholm Sweden
| | - Ines Pinto
- Science for Life Laboratory, Division of NanobiotechnologyDepartment of Protein Science, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and HealthKTH Royal Institute of Technology 114 28 Stockholm Sweden
| | - Ruben R G Soares
- Science for Life Laboratory, Division of NanobiotechnologyDepartment of Protein Science, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and HealthKTH Royal Institute of Technology 114 28 Stockholm Sweden
| | - Aman Russom
- Science for Life Laboratory, Division of NanobiotechnologyDepartment of Protein Science, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and HealthKTH Royal Institute of Technology 114 28 Stockholm Sweden
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18
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Dutta G, Fernandes FC, Estrela P, Moschou D, Bueno PR. Impact of surface roughness on the self-assembling of molecular films onto gold electrodes for label-free biosensing applications. Electrochim Acta 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.electacta.2021.138137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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19
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Scott SM, Ali Z. Fabrication Methods for Microfluidic Devices: An Overview. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:319. [PMID: 33803689 PMCID: PMC8002879 DOI: 10.3390/mi12030319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidic devices offer the potential to automate a wide variety of chemical and biological operations that are applicable for diagnostic and therapeutic operations with higher efficiency as well as higher repeatability and reproducibility. Polymer based microfluidic devices offer particular advantages including those of cost and biocompatibility. Here, we describe direct and replication approaches for manufacturing of polymer microfluidic devices. Replications approaches require fabrication of mould or master and we describe different methods of mould manufacture, including mechanical (micro-cutting; ultrasonic machining), energy-assisted methods (electrodischarge machining, micro-electrochemical machining, laser ablation, electron beam machining, focused ion beam (FIB) machining), traditional micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) processes, as well as mould fabrication approaches for curved surfaces. The approaches for microfluidic device fabrications are described in terms of low volume production (casting, lamination, laser ablation, 3D printing) and high-volume production (hot embossing, injection moulding, and film or sheet operations).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zulfiqur Ali
- Healthcare Innovation Centre, School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, Tees Valley TS1 3BX, UK
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20
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Gillespie P, Channon RB, Meng X, Islam MN, Ladame S, O'Hare D. Nucleic acid sensing via electrochemical oligonucleotide-templated reactions. Biosens Bioelectron 2021; 176:112891. [PMID: 33397596 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2020.112891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Short single-stranded nucleic acids as found in a variety of bodily fluids have recently emerged as minimally invasive biomarkers for a broad range of pathologies, most notably cancer. Because of their small size, low natural abundance and high sequence homology between family members they are challenging to detect using standard technologies suitable for use at the point-of-care. Herein we report the design, engineering and testing of a novel sensing strategy: electrochemically active molecular probes based on peptide nucleic acid (PNA) scaffolds for the detection of single-stranded oligonucleotides, in particular microRNAs (or miRs). As a proof-of-principle, a wide range of probes were designed and tested to detect miR-141, a known diagnostic biomarker for prostate cancer. Optimal quantitative sensing of miR-141 was achieved via the first example of an electrochemical oligonucleotide-templated reaction (EOTR), whereby two PNA probes - functionalized with an aniline and a 1,4-catechol respectively - preferentially react with each other upon simultaneous hybridization to the same RNA target strand, serving here as a template. Quantitative, electrochemical detection of the product of this bio-orthogonal reaction showed direct correlation between adduct formation and miR-141 concentration. Coupling the specificity of OTR with the speed and sensitivity of electrochemical sensing delivers EOTRs as a promising new technique for fast, low-cost, quantitative and sequence-specific detection of short nucleic acids from liquid biopsies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Gillespie
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Robert B Channon
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Xiaotong Meng
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Md Nazmul Islam
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK; School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, Tees Valley, TS1 3BA, UK
| | - Sylvain Ladame
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK.
| | - Danny O'Hare
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK.
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21
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Perdigones F. Lab-on-PCB and Flow Driving: A Critical Review. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:175. [PMID: 33578984 PMCID: PMC7916810 DOI: 10.3390/mi12020175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Lab-on-PCB devices have been developed for many biomedical and biochemical applications. However, much work has to be done towards commercial applications. Even so, the research on devices of this kind is rapidly increasing. The reason for this lies in the great potential of lab-on-PCB devices to provide marketable devices. This review describes the active flow driving methods for lab-on-PCB devices, while commenting on their main characteristics. Among others, the methods described are the typical external impulsion devices, that is, syringe or peristaltic pumps; pressurized microchambers for precise displacement of liquid samples; electrowetting on dielectrics; and electroosmotic and phase-change-based flow driving, to name a few. In general, there is not a perfect method because all of them have drawbacks. The main problems with regard to marketable devices are the complex fabrication processes, the integration of many materials, the sealing process, and the use of many facilities for the PCB-chips. The larger the numbers of integrated sensors and actuators in the PCB-chip, the more complex the fabrication. In addition, the flow driving-integrated devices increase that difficulty. Moreover, the biological applications are demanding. They require transparency, biocompatibility, and specific ambient conditions. All the problems have to be solved when trying to reach repetitiveness and reliability, for both the fabrication process and the working of the lab-on-PCB, including the flow driving system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Perdigones
- Electronic Engineering Department, Higher Technical School of Engineering, University of Seville, 41092 Seville, Spain
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22
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Moccia M, Antonacci A, Saviano M, Caratelli V, Arduini F, Scognamiglio V. Emerging technologies in the design of peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) based biosensors. Trends Analyt Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2020.116062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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23
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Ultra stable, inkjet-printed pseudo reference electrodes for lab-on-chip integrated electrochemical biosensors. Sci Rep 2020; 10:17152. [PMID: 33051556 PMCID: PMC7554035 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74340-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lab-on-Chip technology comprises one of the most promising technologies enabling the widespread adoption of Point-of-Care testing in routine clinical practice. However, until now advances in Lab-on-Chip have not been translated to the anticipated degree to commercialized tools, with integrated device mass manufacturing cost still not at a competitive level for several key clinical applications. Lab-on-PCB is currently considered as a candidate technology addressing this issue, owing to its intuitive compatibility with electronics, seamless integration of electrochemical biosensors and the extensive experience regarding industrial manufacturing processes. Inkjet-printing in particular is a compatible fabrication method, widening the range of electronic materials available and thus enabling seamlessly integrated ultrasensitive electronic detection. To this end, in this work stable pseudo-reference electrodes are fabricated for the first time by means of commercial inkjet-printing on a PCB-integrated electrochemical biosensing platform. SEM and XPS analysis are employed to characterize the electrodes’ structure and composition and identify any special characteristics, compared to published work on alternative substrates. Additionally, this paper analyzes integrated reference electrodes from a new perspective, focusing mainly on their characteristics in real-life operation: chemical sintering as opposed to high budget thermal one, stability under continuous flow, pH dependency and bias stress effects on electrode instability, a parameter often overlooked in electrochemical biosensors.
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Ahmadi M, Ahour F. An electrochemical biosensor based on a graphene oxide modified pencil graphite electrode for direct detection and discrimination of double-stranded DNA sequences. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2020; 12:4541-4550. [PMID: 32869790 DOI: 10.1039/d0ay01128b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The ability to directly recognize double-stranded DNA (ds-DNA) is a major challenge in disease diagnosis and gene therapy because DNA is naturally double-stranded. Herein, a novel electrochemical biosensor for the sequence-specific recognition of ds-DNA using a peptide nucleic acid (PNA) probe and graphene oxide (GO) modified pencil graphite electrode is reported and applied for the direct detection of the desired sequence in plasmid samples. For this purpose, GO was assembled onto the pencil graphite electrode surface (GO/PGE) by a simple casting method and applied for PNA probe immobilization (PNA-GO/PGE). Upon addition of ds-DNA, the interaction of the PNA probe with ds-DNA induces probe detachment from the electrode surface which results in a guanine oxidation signal decrease. Under optimized conditions, the guanine oxidation signal decreased linearly with the ds-DNA concentration increasing in the range from 30 pM to 10 nM, with a detection limit of 1.3 pM. Moreover, the proposed biosensor was applied for the sensitive and selective detection of double-stranded target DNA in plasmid samples. This proposed method could be used as a platform for direct detection of various sequences in double-stranded genomic DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Ahmadi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Faculty of Science, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran.
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25
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Singh KRB, Sridevi P, Singh RP. Potential applications of peptide nucleic acid in biomedical domain. ENGINEERING REPORTS : OPEN ACCESS 2020; 2:e12238. [PMID: 32838227 PMCID: PMC7404446 DOI: 10.1002/eng2.12238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Peptide Nucleic Acid (PNA) are DNA/RNA synthetic analogs with 2-([2-aminoethyl] amino) acetic acid backbone. They partake unique antisense and antigene properties, just due to its inhibitory effect on transcription and translation; they also undergo complementary binding to RNA/DNA with high affinity and specificity. Hence, to date, many methods utilizing PNA for diagnosis and treatment of various diseases namely cancer, AIDS, human papillomavirus, and so on, have been designed and developed. They are being used widely in polymerase chain reaction modulation/mutation, fluorescent in-situ hybridization, and in microarray as a probe; they are also utilized in many in-vitro and in-vivo assays and for developing micro and nano-sized biosensor/chip/array technologies. Earlier reviews, focused only on PNA properties, structure, and modifications related to diagnostics and therapeutics; our review emphasizes on PNA properties and synthesis along with its potential applications in diagnosis and therapeutics. Furthermore, prospects in biomedical applications of PNAs are being discussed in depth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kshitij RB Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of ScienceIndira Gandhi National Tribal UniversityAmarkantakMadhya Pradesh484887India
| | - Parikipandla Sridevi
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of ScienceIndira Gandhi National Tribal UniversityAmarkantakMadhya Pradesh484887India
| | - Ravindra Pratap Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of ScienceIndira Gandhi National Tribal UniversityAmarkantakMadhya Pradesh484887India
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26
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Dutta G, Regoutz A, Moschou D. Enzyme-assisted glucose quantification for a painless Lab-on-PCB patch implementation. Biosens Bioelectron 2020; 167:112484. [PMID: 32798807 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2020.112484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In the context of an integrated Lab-on-PCB wearable patch extracting interstitial fluid from the patient via integrated microneedles, the requirements from the integrated biosensing part are quite special compared to static glucose electrochemical biosensors. Hence, in this study, a fully PCB-integrated enzymatic glucose quantification Lab-on-Chip device is presented and evaluated considering these special requirements for such a patch implementation: a) range and limit of detection compatible with interstitial fluid glucose levels of diabetic patients and b) effect of sample flow rate on the biosensing platform performance. This work employs a chronoamperometric approach for glucose detection based on covalently immobilized glucose oxidase on PCB-integrated electrodes. The chronoamperometric measurements show that this platform exhibits μM range sensitivity, high specificity, and good reproducibility, and the assay can detect glucose from 10 μM to 9 mM with a lower limit of detection of 10 μM. The demonstrated detection range under continuous flow proved compatible with interstitial fluid glucose levels of diabetic patients. The sample-to-answer time of our Lab-on-PCB device is less than 1 min (sample delivery of few seconds and 20 s for electrochemical measurement), employing sample volumes of 50 μL in this instance. Increased flow rates substantially improve the platform sensitivity (1.1 μA/mM @0 μL/min to 6.2 μA/mM @10 μL/min), with the measured current increasing exponentially to the flow rate, as opposed to the theoretically expected much lower dependence. This work demonstrates the feasibility of Lab-on-PCB patches in terms of biosensing performance, paving the way for the first cost-effective, painless diabetes management microsystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gorachand Dutta
- Centre for Biosensors, Bioelectronics and Biodevices (C3Bio), Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Anna Regoutz
- Department of Chemistry, University College London, 20 Gordon Street, London, WC1H 0AJ, UK
| | - Despina Moschou
- Centre for Biosensors, Bioelectronics and Biodevices (C3Bio), Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK.
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Integrated Electrochemical Biosensors for Detection of Waterborne Pathogens in Low-Resource Settings. BIOSENSORS-BASEL 2020; 10:bios10040036. [PMID: 32294961 PMCID: PMC7236604 DOI: 10.3390/bios10040036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
More than 783 million people worldwide are currently without access to clean and safe water. Approximately 1 in 5 cases of mortality due to waterborne diseases involve children, and over 1.5 million cases of waterborne disease occur every year. In the developing world, this makes waterborne diseases the second highest cause of mortality. Such cases of waterborne disease are thought to be caused by poor sanitation, water infrastructure, public knowledge, and lack of suitable water monitoring systems. Conventional laboratory-based techniques are inadequate for effective on-site water quality monitoring purposes. This is due to their need for excessive equipment, operational complexity, lack of affordability, and long sample collection to data analysis times. In this review, we discuss the conventional techniques used in modern-day water quality testing. We discuss the future challenges of water quality testing in the developing world and how conventional techniques fall short of these challenges. Finally, we discuss the development of electrochemical biosensors and current research on the integration of these devices with microfluidic components to develop truly integrated, portable, simple to use and cost-effective devices for use by local environmental agencies, NGOs, and local communities in low-resource settings.
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28
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Kaprou GD, Papadopoulos V, Loukas CM, Kokkoris G, Tserepi A. Towards PCB-Based Miniaturized Thermocyclers for DNA Amplification. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:mi11030258. [PMID: 32121172 PMCID: PMC7143664 DOI: 10.3390/mi11030258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, printed circuit board (PCB)-based microfluidics have been explored as a means to achieve standardization, seamless integration, and large-scale manufacturing of microfluidics, thus paving the way for widespread commercialization of developed prototypes. In this work, static micro polymerase chain reaction (microPCR) devices comprising resistive microheaters integrated on PCBs are introduced as miniaturized thermocyclers for efficient DNA amplification. Their performance is compared to that of conventional thermocyclers, in terms of amplification efficiency, power consumption and duration. Exhibiting similar efficiency to conventional thermocyclers, PCB-based miniaturized thermocycling achieves faster DNA amplification, with significantly smaller power consumption. Simulations guide the design of such devices and propose means for further improvement of their performance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - George Kokkoris
- Correspondence: (G.K.); (A.T.); Tel.: +30-210-650-3238 (G.K.); +30-210-650-3264 (A.T.)
| | - Angeliki Tserepi
- Correspondence: (G.K.); (A.T.); Tel.: +30-210-650-3238 (G.K.); +30-210-650-3264 (A.T.)
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29
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Label-Free Electrochemical Detection of S. mutans Exploiting Commercially Fabricated Printed Circuit Board Sensing Electrodes. MICROMACHINES 2019; 10:mi10090575. [PMID: 31480295 PMCID: PMC6780749 DOI: 10.3390/mi10090575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
This paper reports for the first time printed-circuit-board (PCB)-based label-free electrochemical detection of bacteria. The demonstrated immunosensor was implemented on a PCB sensing platform which was designed and fabricated in a standard PCB manufacturing facility. Bacteria were directly captured on the PCB sensing surface using a specific, pre-immobilized antibody. Electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS) were recorded and used to extract the charge transfer resistance (Rct) value for the different bacteria concentrations under investigation. As a proof-of-concept, Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) bacteria were quantified in a phosphate buffered saline (PBS) buffer, achieving a limit of detection of 103 CFU/mL. Therefore, the proposed biosensor is an attractive candidate for the development of a simple and robust point-of-care diagnostic platform for bacteria identification, exhibiting good sensitivity, high selectivity, and excellent reproducibility.
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30
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Evans D, Papadimitriou KI, Vasilakis N, Pantelidis P, Kelleher P, Morgan H, Prodromakis T. A Novel Microfluidic Point-of-Care Biosensor System on Printed Circuit Board for Cytokine Detection. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2018; 18:E4011. [PMID: 30453609 PMCID: PMC6264023 DOI: 10.3390/s18114011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Revised: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Point of Care (PoC) diagnostics have been the subject of considerable research over the last few decades driven by the pressure to detect diseases quickly and effectively and reduce healthcare costs. Herein, we demonstrate a novel, fully integrated, microfluidic amperometric enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) prototype using a commercial interferon gamma release assay (IGRA) as a model antibody binding system. Microfluidic assay chemistry was engineered to take place on Au-plated electrodes within an assay cell on a printed circuit board (PCB)-based biosensor system. The assay cell is linked to an electrochemical reporter cell comprising microfluidic architecture, Au working and counter electrodes and a Ag/AgCl reference electrode, all manufactured exclusively via standard commercial PCB fabrication processes. Assay chemistry has been optimised for microfluidic diffusion kinetics to function under continual flow. We characterised the electrode integrity of the developed platforms with reference to biological sampling and buffer composition and subsequently we demonstrated concentration-dependent measurements of H₂O₂ depletion as resolved by existing FDA-validated ELISA kits. Finally, we validated the assay technology in both buffer and serum and demonstrate limits of detection comparable to high-end commercial systems with the addition of full microfluidic assay architecture capable of returning diagnostic analyses in approximately eight minutes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Evans
- Nanoelectronics & Nanotechnology Research Group, Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Konstantinos I Papadimitriou
- Nanoelectronics & Nanotechnology Research Group, Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Nikolaos Vasilakis
- Nanoelectronics & Nanotechnology Research Group, Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Panagiotis Pantelidis
- Centre for Immunology and Vaccinology, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London SW10 9NH, UK.
- Infection and Immunity, North West London Pathology, Imperial College NHS Trust, Charing Cross Hospital, London W6 8RF, UK.
| | - Peter Kelleher
- Centre for Immunology and Vaccinology, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London SW10 9NH, UK.
- Infection and Immunity, North West London Pathology, Imperial College NHS Trust, Charing Cross Hospital, London W6 8RF, UK.
| | - Hywel Morgan
- Nanoelectronics & Nanotechnology Research Group, Electronics and Computer Science, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | - Themistoklis Prodromakis
- Zepler Institute for Photonics and Nanoelectronics, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK.
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