Sensitive and rapid protein assay via magnetic levitation

Abstract

Magnetic levitation (MagLev) is a newly emerging methodology for biosensing that provides a density-based analysis, which is highly sensitive and versatile. In this study, a magnetic levitation based sensor platform was used for protein detection; and sensor platform optimization was performed for both sensitivity and resolution. Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) was used as a model protein and detection of BSA was carried out by antibody functionalized polystyrene microspheres (PSMs). Various sizes of PSMs were examined and their performances were compared by statistical analyses in terms of limit of detection (LOD), sensitivity, and resolution. Quantification of the protein was done based on the magnetic levitation height differences of antibody functionalized PSMs. For optimization of the methodology, varied PSMs were utilized, and standardization of PSM diameter, concentration of the antibody to be functionalized, and PSM dilution rates were carried out. In conclusion, 20 μm PSMs diluted to 0.005% W/V and functionalized with anti-BSA antibody at a concentration of 28 μg/ml were determined to provide the best resolution for BSA detection. A dynamic range of 100 nM to 1 mM was observed with an LOD value of 4.1 ng/ml. This sensing platform promises a novel approach with a diverse application field and it provides rapid, consistent, and reproducible results with high resolution and sensitivity.