Rapid and accurate detection of herpes simplex virus type 2 using a low-cost electrochemical biosensor

Author(s)

de Lima, Lucas F. ; Ferreira, Andre L. ; Awasthi, Sita ; Torres, Marcelo D. T. ; Friedman, Harvey M. ; Cohen, Gary H. ; de Araujo, William R. ; de la Fuente-Nunez, Cesar

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: CELL REPORTS PHYSICAL SCIENCE; v. 4, n. 9, p. 17-pg., 2023-09-20.

Abstract

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection, which is almost exclusively sexually transmitted, causes genital herpes. Although this lifelong and incurable infection is extremely widespread, currently there is no readily available diagnostic device that accurately detects HSV-2 antigens to a satisfactory degree. Here, we report an ultrasensitive electrochemical device that detects HSV-2 antigens within 9 min and costs just $1 (USD) to manufacture. The electrochemical biosensor is biofunctionalized with the human cellular receptor nectin-1 and detects the glycoprotein gD2, which is present within the HSV-2 viral envelope. The performance of the device is tested in a guinea pig model that mimics human biofluids, yielding 88.9% sensitivity, 100.0% specificity, and 95.0% accuracy under these conditions, with a limit of detection of 0.019 fg mL-1 for gD2 protein and 0.057 PFU mL-1 for titered viral samples. Importantly, no cross -reactions with other viruses were detected, indicating the adequate robustness and selectivity of the sensor. Our low-cost technology could facilitate more frequent testing for HSV-2. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 22/03250-7 - Development of portable and cost-effective biosensors for clinical diagnosis of bacterial and viral infections
• Grantee: William Reis de Araujo
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Initial Project
• FAPESP's process: 18/08782-1 - Miniaturized and integrated chemical sensors: new fabrication platforms for biological, clinical and environmental applications
• Grantee: Mauro Bertotti
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants