Nanoparticle electrochemical biosensors for virus detection

Abstract

Viruses pose a significant threat to global public health, underscoring the urgent need for rapid, accurate, and sensitive diagnostic methods for timely detection and intervention. The demand for efficient diagnostics that can detect a wide range of viral pathogens has never been greater. In this context, metal nanoparticle-based biosensors have emerged as a promising solution, offering exceptional sensitivity for detecting various analytes, including nucleic acids (DNA/RNA), proteins, and other biomarkers associated with pathogens. These biosensors are particularly critical for the development of point-of-care (POC) diagnostic tools, enabling early detection of infectious agents. This review explores recent advancements in nanoparticle (NP)-based biosensors that utilize noble metals like gold (Au), silver (Ag), and platinum (Pt) for viral pathogen detection, focusing on viruses such as SARS-CoV, HIV, hepatitis, influenza, and Zika. It highlights the role of NP-based electrochemical sensors and compares traditional and contemporary detection techniques. The review also examines key performance metrics such as limits of detection (LOD), linear detection ranges, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility, with a special emphasis on their application in POC diagnostics. The aim is to provide researchers with valuable insights into the development of next-generation NP-based biosensors, facilitating the creation of innovative diagnostic technologies for viral diseases.

Keywords: Conventional diagnosis; Electrochemical biosensors; Noble metallic nanoparticles; POC diagnostics; Virus detection.