High sensitivity perovskite-tagged nanobody electrochemiluminescent immunosensor for S1 protein biomarker-based viral reservoir detection,2026,January

Chandelier

Chandelier

Senior Member (Voting Rights)
High sensitivity perovskite-tagged nanobody electrochemiluminescent immunosensor for spike (S1) protein biomarker-based persistent viral reservoir detection

January, Jaymi; Zwaenepoel, Olivier; Sanga, Nelia; Gettemans, Jan; Iwuoha, Emmanuel

Highlights​

  • First perovskite-tagged nanobody ECL sensor for SARS-CoV-2S1 detection.
  • Ultra-sensitive detection with high specificity and robust stability.
  • Achieves very low detection limits in biological samples.
  • Rapid, reliable platform for COVID-19 protein detection.
  • Enables non-invasive monitoring of long-term viral persistence.

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Abstract​

Persistent viral reservoirs (PVR) of SARS-CoV-2 (or long COVID-19) and latent COVID-19 disease have been of great concern to clinicians.
Several studies have identified spike protein (S1) as a definitive biomarker for the early detection of persistent viral reservoirs and latent COVID-19.
A novel sandwich-format electrochemical immunosensor integrating a nanocomposite material was engineered for rapid and sensitive latent COVID-19 detection.
The platform structure, AuSPE||strep|Nb1|BSA|biotin|S1|strep-LiSmZrO3-Nb2 + BSA (AuSPE = gold screen-printed electrode, strep = streptavidin-thiol, Nb1 = primary nanobody, Nb2 = secondary nanobody, BSA = bovine serum albumin, and spike (S1) protein = S1), featured a disposable AuSPE modified with strep to anchor a biotinylated camelid Nb1 specific to the spike protein.
A Nb2 conjugated to streptavidin-labelled LiSmZrO3 perovskite completed the sandwich complex, enhancing both affinity and signal transduction.
Electrochemical responses of the sensor were studied via electrochemiluminescent (ECL) signal transduction.
The S1-sensitive sandwich immunosensor had a detection range of 0–1000 pg mL−1 with a limit of detection of 0.04 pg mL−1 via ECL.
As feasibility studies, commercial spike protein in buffered solutions and human serum, highlighting the potential for the immunosensor to be used in SARS-CoV-2 patients and PVRs.
The nanobody sandwich immunosensor showed excellent stability, selectivity, sensitivity, and reproducibility.
The immunosensor serves as a broad PVR for a SARS-CoV-2 screening tool, detecting elevated S1 levels to enable early, targeted diagnostics.

Graphical abstract​

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Web | DOI | Bioelectrochemistry
 
850-word article.

AI Summary:
Low-Cost Diagnostic Breakthrough at UWC

Scientists at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) have developed a low-cost, highly sensitive, and rapid electrochemical screening test aimed at improving early detection of cancer, tuberculosis (TB), and long Covid-19, which are major public health challenges in South Africa.
The technology was developed at UWC’s SensorLab to provide faster and more affordable screening and to reduce pressure on the healthcare system.

Capabilities and Scientific Findings

In a study published in the journal Bioelectrochemistry, researchers from UWC and the University of Ghent reported that the sensor can detect extremely small amounts of Covid-19 spike protein in blood samples, identifying concentrations as low as 0.04 picograms per millilitre.
This allows detection of hidden Covid-19 infections and may help identify patients at risk of long Covid-19 earlier than existing methods.

Earlier research led by Dr Jaymi Leigh January demonstrated that the same sensor technology could detect certain cancers by measuring macrophage-capping protein (CapG), which is overproduced in several cancers, including breast, ovarian, and gastric cancers.
In 2024, the sensor was also shown to detect interferon gamma, a marker of active TB infection.

Impact and Context

Tests confirmed that the sensor works reliably in both laboratory solutions and human blood serum, showing stability, reproducibility, and suitability for routine screening.
SensorLab, established in 2002, focuses on developing portable, low-cost diagnostic tools using nanotechnology to improve access to healthcare, particularly in underserved communities.
The research aims to enable earlier detection, improved monitoring, and more timely treatment of major diseases in South Africa.
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