Scientists at Swansea University, Biovici Ltd and the National Physical Laboratory have developed a graphene-based method to detect viruses in very small volumes.
Graphene device chip attached to an electrical connector, with two 5 μL HCVcAg samples (one applied on each graphene resistor). Image credit: Swansea U
The work followed a successful Innovate UK project developing graphene for use in biosensors devices that can detect tiny levels of disease markers.
What makes the detection of viruses in such small volumes possible is the use of graphene. Graphene is very sensitive to anything that attaches to it and so by carefully controlling its surface, the scientists were able to make the surface of graphene sensitive to the HCV virus. These measurements were done with graphene specialists at the National Physical Laboratory.
In the future, it is hoped that multiple biosensors can be developed onto a single chip this could be used to detect different types of dangerous viruses or disease markers from a single measurement.
Ffion Walters, Innovation Technologist at Swansea University’s Healthcare Technology Centre said: Highly sensitive and simplistic sensors have never been more in demand with regards point-of-care applications. This collaborative project has allowed us to realize proof-of-concept real-time sensors for HCV, which could be especially beneficial in resource-limited settings or for difficult-to-reach populations.
Professor Owen Guy, Head of Chemistry at Swansea University, said: At Swansea University, we have now developed graphene-based biosensors for both Hepatitis B and C. This is a major step forward to a future single point of care test
Dr. Olga Kazakova, NPL Fellow Quantum Materials & Sensors added: NPL was delighted to be part of this multidisciplinary team. Participation in this project allowed us to further develop our metrological validation facilities and apply them to the characterization of graphene biosensors and aid in solving an important challenge in the health sector.