A Genetic Screening Test for Obesity Based on Stochastic Sensing

Abstract

A genetic screening test for obesity based on stochastic sensing was proposed. Stochastic sensors designed using different carbon matrices were used. The genes selected were: plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) and leptin. The two genes can be reliably detected in whole blood samples. The linear concentration range was between 1.25 × 10−10 and 1.25 × 10−3 mg/mL for leptin, and between 1.00 × 10−12 and 1.00 × 10−5 mg/mL for PAI-1. The main advantages are: the sample did not need any pretreatment before measurement; the limits of determinations achieved for leptin (1.25 × 10−10) and PAI-1 (1 × 10−12) are low, and the screening test is fast and reliable.