Graphene Sensor Detecting SARS-CoV-2 via Conductance Shift
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for effective devices and methods for the early detection of SARS-COV-2 virus, particularly for use at the point-of-care to inhibit the spread of the viral infection.
Innovation Solution
A graphene-based sensor is developed that includes a graphene layer functionalized with anti-SARS-COV-2 binding agents such as antibodies or aptamers, and electrical conductors to measure electrical properties, allowing for the detection of SARS-COV-2 in biological samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If conventional detection methods are used, then detection capability is achieved, but detection speed and early identification capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical/chemical detection methods with an electrical measurement system. A graphene-based sensor functionalized with anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies measures changes in electrical conductance when the virus binds to the sensor, enabling rapid detection while maintaining high precision through electrical signal measurement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If centralized laboratory testing is used, then detection accuracy is maintained, but accessibility and point-of-care capability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the core detection function from centralized laboratory settings and creates a standalone, portable sensor device that can be deployed at point-of-care locations. The graphene-based sensor with antibody functionalization provides laboratory-grade detection accuracy in a compact, accessible format that can be used in clinics, hospitals, or even home settings.
3Loss of time
If rapid detection is implemented, then early identification capability is improved, but detection sensitivity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes changes in electrical conductance parameters of graphene when viral particles bind to the functionalized surface. This parameter change provides a rapid, real-time signal that maintains high detection sensitivity, allowing for fast identification of SARS-CoV-2 without compromising the ability to detect low viral loads.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The sensor enables rapid and effective detection of SARS-COV-2 virus in biological samples, facilitating early identification and potential containment of the virus, while also being suitable for use at the point-of-care.
Implementation Method 1
The anti-SARS-COV-2 binding agents comprise antibodies or aptamers exhibiting specific binding to SARS-COV-2
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of electrical conductors electrically coupled to said functionalized graphene layer for measuring at least one electrical property of said functionalized graphene layer
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a sensor for detecting SARS-COV-2 virus in a sample, e.g., a blood sample, is disclosed, which includes a graphene layer, a plurality of binding agents coupled to said graphene layer to generate a functionalized graphene layer, where the binding agents exhibit specific binding to at least one epitope of SARS-COV-2 virus, and a plurality of electrical conductors electrically coupled to said functionalized graphene layer for measuring an electrical property (e.g., DC electrical resistance) of the functionalized graphene layer. While in some embodiments such binding agents are monoclonal antibodies, in other embodiments they can be polyclonal antibodies.