Dendrimer-based DNA biosensor for HIV virus detection

Abstract

In this work, we propose an innovative electrochemical DNA biosensor for the early, rapid, selective, and sensitive detection of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) based on its genetic code. This platform is based on the integration of few-layer bismuthene (FLB) which provides a nanostructured surface and facilitates the anchoring of the DNA dendrimer which incorporates the biorecognition element (a capture probe complementary to the HIV-specific DNA sequence). The hybridization between the capture probe and the specific HIV target sequence is detected using Azure A (AA) as a redox indicator. The dendrimer-based DNA biosensor selectively detects HIV from 10.0 fM to 10.0 pM, exhibit a low detection limit of 3.03 fM and a 60-day stability, and has been validated using plasma samples from infected patients with varying viral loads.

Keywords: Azure A (AA); DNA biosensor; DNA dendrimer; Few-layer bismuthene (FLB); Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).