Biosensors are devices used to detect the presence or density of specific biomolecules or biological structures. In this case, the researchers designed protein-based biosensors that recognize specific molecules on the surface of a particular virus and bind to them, then release light through biochemical reactivity.
The scientists used this approach to design biosensors of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 protein epitopes and the receptor binding (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.
The product was a biosensor that shines when mixed with COVID-19 antibodies.
The researchers were able to show that their biosensor SARS-CoV-2 does not react with other potential antibodies in the blood, including those that target other viruses, which is an important concept for avoiding false-positive test results.
Image of a new biosensor attaching to a targeted molecule and scattering light. Image courtesy of Ian Haydon / Institute for Protein Design at the University of Washington.
The researchers hope that their approach will lead to faster testing in clinical settings. Currently, SARS-CoV-2 infections are routinely detected using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). However, RT-PCR is a slow process that relies on specialized skills and equipment in the laboratory. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has created shortages in laboratory supply and other supply chain issues that will delay patient test results even further.
In contrast, luminescence-based protein biosensors offer an attractive method for testing, especially at the point of care, because they promise to read out almost immediately. In addition, the measurement of luminescence can be done with inexpensive equipment such as a cell phone camera.
“We have shown in the laboratory that these new sensors can easily detect viral proteins or antibodies in a nasal passage or donated serum,” said David Baker, PhD, director of the Institute for Protein Design at University of Washington, in a statement. “Our next goal is to ensure that they can be used reliably in a diagnostic setting. This work demonstrates the power of de novo protein design to create molecular devices from scratch with new and useful functions.”
In addition to their biosensor model for the detection of SARS-CoV-2, the scientists also showed that similar models can be designed to detect cancer-related proteins, namely Her2 (breast cancer) and Bcl-2 (lymphoma), and to detect hepatitis B antibodies.
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