Carbon nanotube labeled immunosensor for lateral flow diagnostics

Abstract

This paper presents the development and demonstration of a new immunosensor utilizing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) labeled antibodies on lateral flow system. The developed immunosensor utilizes the unique properties of carbon nanotubes coupled with highly specific biorecognition capabilities of antibodies for sensitive, low-concentration, and rapid detection mechanism. Carbon nano-tubes are excellent electrical conductors, and have chemical stability, color generation, and large surface area for multiple functionalizations. The immunosensor is composed of porous membranes used to immobilize bioreceptors and transport sample reagents in lateral direction by capillary action. MWCNTs are conjugated with antibodies to make specific binding at the capture line. Signal quantification is provided based on colorimetric and conductimetric measurements at the capture line. The immunosensor in this work can further provide the base for accurate and simple detection principle to meet the demands of point-of-care devices with fully integrated electrical detection scheme.