A
Wayne State University researcher has developed a novel method applying graphene
to sensitive, high-throughput, multiplexing, for label-free and low-cost
electrical biosensing applications.
Graphene
is a flat single layer of sp2 bonded carbon atoms that are packed in a honey
comb lattice, and have shown to have exceptional electronic, mechanical, and
chemical properties. Different
to label-based detection, the label-free detection measures the change in
inherent properties caused by the molecular binding on the sensor surface, such
as charge mass, stress, or dielectric constants. By
modifying graphene’s attractive properties, the technique utilizes the naturally
occurring defects found on the edges of graphene particles to attract “particles
of interest.” The label-free technique not only
eliminates laborious, time-consuming procedures for tagging fluorescent probes,
but also enables the determination of reaction kinetics of biomolecular
interactions in real-time.
The technology enables the development of inexpensive, disposable medical
patches for a wide variety of detection and diagnosis applications
Commercial
Applications:
·
Real-time,
label free molecular detection
-Screening
for cancer biomarkers
·
Point-of-care
diagnosis
-Blood glucose testing
- Exposure
to environment
-
Chlorestroal screening
Technological
Advantages:
·
Reduces
the complexity
–
Eliminates
laborious, time-consuming procedures for tagging fluorescent probes
·
Mitigates
response time
–
Enables
the determination of reaction kinetics of biomolecular interactions in
real-time.
·
Higher
Accuracy
–
Graphene’s
hydrophobic properties eliminates problems of biofouling.
·
Surface
Functionalization
–
Flexible
graphene structure allows for application in a variety of point-of-care
settings.
·
Significant
cost reductions
–
Manufacturing
costs
–
Eliminate
laboratory expenses
–
Reduces
response time and labor in clinical and at-home patient care settings
·
Increased
patient empowerment
Patent Status:
Patent Pending