Scientists from ibs.GRANADA improve the effectiveness of graphene sensors for the rapid detection of COVID-19 and other diseases
The study, published in the journal Biosensors and Bioelectronics, helps unravel how detailed preparation of these sensors can lead to faster and more accurate diagnoses, offering a tool of incalculable value for global public health.
The research group TEC04 Nanoelectronics of the Biosanitary Research Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), in collaboration with the 'Nanobiotechnology for Life Sciences' research group of the Complutense University of Madrid, has shown that the way in which the surface of graphene sensors is crucial to improve their sensitivity and accuracy. This is especially important for rapid disease diagnosis applications, as it allows sensors to be more reliable and reproducible in their measurements. Modifying the surface of the sensor in a targeted and non-random manner allows small concentrations of viruses or other molecules to be measured reliably and consistently. This represents a significant advance for the diagnosis of infectious diseases such as COVID-19, or other future pathologies..
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for rapid and accurate diagnostic methods, highlighting the potential of emerging technologies such as graphene sensors. These biosensors could revolutionize the way we detect diseases by allowing rapid and direct testing, even at street level, in the patient's home or primary care office, without the need to go to specialized centers.
The researchers, who also belong to the Nanoelectronics, Graphene and Two-Dimensional Materials group at the University of Granada, demonstrate that the improvement in the effectiveness of these biosensors depends on how the graphene surface is chemically modified. The surface of graphene is complex and highly sensitive, which can be a problem if not handled correctly. Therefore, by chemically modifying its surface it becomes more selective and precise in detecting diseases. This work has modified the surface of graphene sensors to specifically capture the SARS-CoV-2 virus, responsible for COVID-19. This discovery not only holds promise for improving the detection and diagnosis of COVID-19, but could also be critical for preparation for future pandemics.
The group of scientists from the Biosanitary Research Institute of Granada, the Complutense University of Madrid and the company Atrys Health SL, have developed this study at the Information and Communications Technologies Research Center of the University of Granada, a center that It has the necessary equipment for the design and manufacture of the sensors and their electrical measurement. The chemical modification strategy of the sensor surface has been developed at the Complutense University, where preclinical validation has also been carried out. In addition to the experimental study, researchers from the University of Granada have developed a pioneering theoretical study using simulations and advanced microscopy techniques, which help understand how the sensor works.
This advancement represents a significant step toward more effective and accessible medical devices in the fight against disease.
The project has been partially financed by the Technological Development in Health projects DTS20/00038 and DTS20/00109 (AES20-ISCIII) of the Carlos III Health Institute.
About the research group
The research group TEC04-Nanoelectronics ibs.GRANADA dedicates its efforts to researching and developing advanced technologies in the field of electronics at the nanometer scale. Her work focuses on controlling the flow of electrons through various media, taking advantage of their rapid response to electric and magnetic fields. This allows the creation of very small and efficient devices, essential for the transmission of energy and information. Research lines include the development of advanced memories, biosensors for early medical diagnoses, nanoelectronic devices such as spintronics and optoelectronics, and new materials such as graphene. Additionally, they explore flexible electronics for wearable devices and smart textiles. Its objective is to apply Nanoscience and Nanotechnology to Electronics, achieving significant advances in the miniaturization and efficiency of electronic devices.
More information about the group at: https://www.ibsgranada.es/grupos-de-investigacion/tec04-nanoelectronica/
Bibliographic reference
Lozano-Chamizo, L., Márquez, C., Marciello, M., Galdon, JC, de la Fuente-Zapico, E., Martinez-Mazón, P., … & Gamiz, F. (2024). High enhancement of sensitivity and reproducibility in label-free SARS-CoV-2 detection with graphene field-effect transistor sensors through precise surface biofunctionalization control. Biosensors and Bioelectronics, 250, 116040.
