W41 - Translating SERS biosensors into an easy-to-use one-pot-assay

In fifteen words or less, explain the significance of this contribution (Novel Aspect).: Tableting SERS biosensors for stable and deployable one-pot-assay.

Abstract Text: Current diagnostic technologies have either limited sensitivity (e.g., lateral-flow assays) or limited deployability (e.g., PCR or ELISA). Many researchers - including our group- has been working on novel biosensors technology to fill this technological gap (sensitive + deployable sensing). However, biosensors technology work in the vast majority of cases in solution and require either liquid/sample handling, sample preparation and/or microfluidic devices to work. Our group is working on avoiding these steps by translating reagentless SERS biosensor into a solid format to work in a one-pot-assay without any processing steps. To this end, we are designing sensors for bacteriophage MS2 utilized as a model virus to investigate how to target a complex viral genome. We are also studying the use of lyophilization and tableting of SERS biosensors not only for long-term stability but also for creating a deployable assay. Additionally, we are studying how to seamlessly integrate lysing agents within the assay. These agents are required for penetrating the viral capsid and release the target genome.