Design of engineered surfaces for prospective detection of SARS-CoV-2 using quartz crystal microbalance-based techniques

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Rapid transmission of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has affected the whole world and forced it to a halt (lockdown). A fast and label-free detection method for the novel coronavirus needs to be developed along with the existing enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-based methods.

Areas covered

In this report, biophysical aspects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike glycoprotein are outlined based on its recent reported electron microscopy structure. Protein binding sites are analyzed theoretically, which consisted of hydrophobic and positive charged amino acid residues. Different strategies to form mixed self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of hydrophobic (CH₃) and negatively charged (COOH) groups are discussed to be used for the specific and strong interactions with spike protein. Bio-interfacial interactions between the spike protein and device (sensor) surface and its implications toward designing suitable engineered surfaces are summarized.

Expert opinion

Implementation of the engineered surfaces in quartz crystal microbalance (QCM)-based detection techniques for the diagnosis of the novel coronavirus from oral swab samples is highlighted. The proposed strategy can be explored for the label-free and real-time detection with sensitivity up to ng level. These engineered surfaces can be reused after desorption.

KEYWORDS:

• SARS-CoV spike glycoprotein
• self-assembled monolayers
• surface modification
• bio-interface
• binding sites
• quartz crystal microbalance

Article highlights

• Hydrophobicity, isoelectric point, and binding sites of the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein.

• Design of engineered surface having mixed CH₃ and COOH self-assembled monolayers.

• Strategy for the label-free and real-time detection of SARS-CoV-2 based on QCM-based sensor.

• The covalently engineered QCM crystal enables the desorption and reuse of the sensor surfaces.

• Key concepts of bio-interfacial interactions between spike protein and engineered surface.

Declaration of interest

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

Reviewer disclosures

Peer reviewers on this manuscript have no relevant financial or other relationships to disclose.

Additional information

Funding

This paper was not funded.