Rapid, highly sensitive multiplexed viral detection with nanopores
This technology is a method to capture single molecules for sensitive electronic detection of viral particles such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus, viral antigens, and antibodies using nanopores.
Unmet Need: Efficient detection of low-abundance viral particles without amplification
Rapid, accurate testing is essential in managing the spread of infectious diseases like SARS-CoV-2. Current methods for viral detection, such as PCR, require sample preparation and time-consuming amplification steps; alternative techniques that focus on antibody detection still require high viral load. No approach exists to rapidly and efficiently detect viral particles present at low environmental levels without amplification for monitoring emerging pathogens and impeding future infectious disease crises.
The Technology: Nanopores for electronic detection of viral particles at single-molecule level
This technology harnesses nanopores for rapid, single-molecule electronic detection of SARS-CoV-2 viral particles. Capture agents formed by SARS-CoV-2 spike protein antibodies conjugated to a negatively charged DNA tag are drawn into nanopores using a voltage gradient; those bound to a viral particle clog the nanopore, thus generating a detectable current blockade with single-molecule sensitivity. The flexibility of the tagging approach allows for specific viral target identification and multiplexing for several targets. Further, the nanopores can be used to identify viruses, antigens, antibodies, or other biomarkers. With no amplification required, the method is fast, low-cost, and simple to implement. Therefore, this technology enables rapid, multiplexed detection of low-abundance viral particles to aid in monitoring disease spread and identifying emerging pathogens.
Applications:
- Diagnostic assay for SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses
- Detection of viral antibodies
- Environmental surveillance of pathogens and infectious diseases
- Identification of weaponized pathogens in biowarfare
- Biomarker detection
- Diagnostic assay for cancer and other diseases
- Detection of emerging pathogens
- Research tool for analysis of single molecules
Advantages:
- Rapid sample-to-result
- Highly sensitive with single-molecule detection limit
- Low-cost
- Simple operation and analysis
- Multiplexing for simultaneous identification of multiple targets
- Amplification free approach
Lead Inventor:
Patent Information:
Patent Pending(WO/2022/140655)
Related Publications:
Tech Ventures Reference:
IR CU21160
Licensing Contact: Cynthia Lang