"ADVANCED QUANTUM DOT-INTEGRATED BIOSENSOR FOR RAPID PATHOGEN DETECTION AND IDENTIFICATION"

Abstract

The invention relates to an advanced quantum dot-integrated biosensor (LFB) designed for the rapid and accurate detection of pathogens. LFBs are simple, affordable, and portable diagnostic tools that traditionally use color changes for detection. Utilizing a unique combination of QDs and specific chemical ligands, the biosensor operates effectively in complex biological environments. It provides high sensitivity and adaptability, enabling the simultaneous identification of multiple pathogens. This innovation enhances the accuracy of pathogen detection, facilitating timely medical interventions and improving diagnostic capabilities in various applications

Specification

The present invention relates to the field of biosensors, specifically to quantum dotintegrated
biosensors designed for the rapid detection and identification of pathogens in
various biological samples. Biosensors have gained significant attention in recent years due to their potential for realtime
monitoring of biological analytes, particularly in medical diagnostics and
environmental monitoring. Traditional biosensing techniques often face limitations such as
low sensitivity, long response times, and the inability to differentiate between closely
related pathogens. Lateral flow biosensors (LFBs) are rapid diagnostic tools that offer
simplicity, low cost, and portability. Traditionally, they rely on colorimetric signals for
detection. However, the integration of quantum dots (QDs) has revolutionized LFBs,
enhancing their sensitivity, specificity, and multiplexing capabilities. QDs are nanocrystals
with unique optical properties. They emit light of a specific color when excited by a light
source. Their size determines the color of the emitted light, offering a wide spectrum of
colors. This characteristic, coupled with their high quantum yield (efficiency of converting
absorbed light into emitted light), makes them ideal for biosensing applications. Their sizetunable
fluorescence allows for multiplexing capabilities, enabling the simultaneous
detection of multiple targets. Previous inventions, such as the quantum dot-sensory array for
biological recognition (US201 I 0130297 A I), highlight the ability of QDs to differentiate
various biological molecules within a single sample. The array-based approach facilitates
the identification of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, by leveraging the
specific interactions between QDs and biomolecules. Despite these advancements, existing
technologies often require complex fabrication processes and lack adaptability to different
biological environments. Furthermore, many prior art solutions do not effectively combine
the sensitivity of QDs with user-friendly operational protocols. This invention aims to
address these challenges by providing a novel quantum dot-integrated biosensor that is both
highly sensitive and versatile, capable of rapid pathogen detection and identification.
LFB, often referred to as immuno-chromatographic strips, are rapid diagnostic tools that
utilize capillary action and immunochemical reactions to detect specific analytes in a
sample. Here's a breakdown of the working principle (Fig. I):
Sample Application: The sample (e.g., blood, urine, salivn) is npplicd to the sample pad of
the LFB.
Capillary Action: The sample is drawn through the strip by capillary action, moving across
different zones.
Conjugate Pad: This zone contains labeled particles (e.g., gold nanoparticles) conjugated
with specific biorecognition elements (e.g., antibodies, aptamers). When the sample reaches
this pad, these conjugated particles are released.
Reaction Zone: As the sample and conjugated particles move through this zone, they
interact with the target analyte in the sample. If the target analyte is present, it binds to the
biorecognition element on the conjugated particles, forming a complex.
Test Line: The test line contains immobilized capture probes specific to the target analyte.
If the complex formed in the reaction zone encounters the test line, it binds to the capture
probes, resulting in a visible line. The intensity of this line is proportional to the
concentration of the target analyte.
The QDs-integrated biosensor comprises a substrate embedded with QDs that are
functionalized with specific ligands targeting various pathogens. Upon exposure to a
biological sample, the target pathogens bind to the QDs, leading to a change in fluorescence
intensity. This change is quantitatively measured to determine the presence and
concentration of the pathogens. The design allows for easy modification of the ligand ·
composition, enabling the sensor to adapt to different pathogens without extensive redesign.
The biosensor's rapid response time and high sensitivity make it suitable for clinical
diagnostics and environmental monitoring applications.
LFBs, often called strips, use capillary action and chemistry to quickly detect analytes in
samples. QD-based LFBs have a nitrocellulose membrane with capture probes. QDs, linked
to biorecognition elements, bind to target analytes, creating a visible signal. QDs enhance
LFBs by offering higher sensitivity, detecting multiple targets, and providing quantitative
results. This technology is advancing rapidly, promising broader applications in diagnostics,
food safety, and environmental monitoring.
The invention presents an advanced quantum dot-integrated biosensor that utilizes a unique
combination of quantum dots and specific chemical ligands to achieve rapid and accurate
detection of pathogens. The biosensor is designed to operate in complex biological
environments, allowing for the identification of multiple pathogens simultaneously. By
employing a simplified chemical recognition component and a robust transduction
mechanism, the biosensor ensures high sensitivity and adaptability. This innovation not
only accelerates the detection process but also enhances the accuracy of pathogen
identification, which is crucial for timely medical interventions!
CLAIM 1: A QDs-integrated biosensor for the rapid detection of pathogens, comprising a
substrate with QDs functionalized with specific chemical ligands that bind to target
pathogens.
CLAIM 2: The QDs are capable of emitting fluorescence at different wavelengths,
allowing for the simultaneous detection of multiple pathogens.
CLAIM 3: A method for detecting pathogens using the biosensor, involving the biological
sample, binding of target pathogens to the QDs, and measurement of fluorescence intensity
changes.

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