Label-free SERS-Based Aptasensor for SARS-CoV-2 S-Proteins Detection

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53655/joe.t6021l

Keywords:

SERS, aptamer, SARS-CoV-2, spike (S-) protein, Wuhan, Omicron

Abstract

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.

Author Biography

Liyana Shatar, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia

References

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Published

05-11-2025

How to Cite

Suhailin, F. H., & Liyana Shatar. (2025). Label-free SERS-Based Aptasensor for SARS-CoV-2 S-Proteins Detection. Jurnal OptoElektronik, 1–4. https://doi.org/10.53655/joe.t6021l

Issue

Section

TMP2025: Regular