Label-free SERS-Based Aptasensor for SARS-CoV-2 S-Proteins Detection
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53655/joe.t6021lKeywords:
SERS, aptamer, SARS-CoV-2, spike (S-) protein, Wuhan, OmicronAbstract
This study presents a label-free surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) aptasensor for the sensitive and selective detection of SARS-CoV-2 spike (S-) proteins of Wuhan and Omicron variants. Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) were deposited onto hydroxylated silicon (Si) substrates and functionalized with variant-specific aptamers. The SERS aptasensor demonstrated a strong, concentration-dependent Raman response from 1 nM to 20 µM, with a sensitive and prominent peak at 1590 cm⁻¹ attributed to Au–thiolate bonding. The Omicron variant produced significantly higher SERS intensity than the Wuhan variant, suggesting enhanced aptamer binding affinity and Raman responses. Beside high sensitivity and capability for variant discrimination, a strong linear correlation between SERS intensity and protein concentration supports the potential of label-free SERS aptasensor for quantitative diagnostics of COVID-19.
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