In today’s world, where health threats such as viruses and drug-resistant bacteria are prevalent, the need for quick and reliable home diagnostic tests is time-critical. Researchers at NYU Tandon School of Engineering have made exciting advancements that might change the way we approach disease detection. Actually, they are developing microchips capable of identifying multiple diseases from a single cough or air sample.
The Role of Field-Effect Transistors
This technology relies on field-effect transistors (FETs), which are tiny electronic devices that detect biological markers and convert them into digital signals. Professor Elisa Riedo explains, “This innovative technology offers an alternative to traditional colour-based chemical diagnostic tests.” Unlike simple home pregnancy tests, FET-based sensors can deliver fast results while transmitting data directly to healthcare providers.
Precision Detection with Thermal Scanning Probe Lithography
Obviously, a significant challenge faced by current FET-based sensors is their ability to detect multiple pathogens at once. However, researchers are exploring new methods to modify FET surfaces. Researchers can tailor each transistor on a chip to detect different biomarkers. This advancement opens up possibilities for rapid diagnostics across a range of diseases.
How tSPL Enhances Biosensing Capabilities
The introduction of a technique known as thermal scanning probe lithography (tSPL) has elevated the potential of these chips significantly. This method allows for precise patterning on polymer-coated microchips. With resolutions as fine as 20 nanometers, scientists can functionalise individual transistors with specific bioreceptors such as antibodies or aptamers.
Exceptional Performance in Tests
Evidently, in tests conducted so far, sensors that utilised tSPL demonstrated remarkable capabilities. Indeed, they could successfully detect concentrations as low as 3 attomolar of SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins and distinguish between viral types like influenza A. Specifically, this level of sensitivity is crucial for creating portable diagnostic devices usable in various environments — from hospitals to homes.
The Future of Disease Detection
Unquestionably, the collaboration between academia and industry plays a vital role in advancing these technologies. Companies like Mirimus and Lendlease are working alongside NYU Tandon researchers to develop wearable devices capable of diagnosing illnesses at home or within buildings.
By integrating billions of nanoscale FETs onto microchips, we stand on the brink of widespread biosensing applications that could forever change modern medicine.
Undeniably, this research showcases how innovative solutions can arise from collaboration. Furthermore, it also reflects our drive toward enhancing public health through technology.
Reference
Wright, A. J., Nasralla, H. H., Deshmukh, R., Jamalzadeh, M., Hannigan, M., Patera, A., Li, Y., Manzo-Perez, M., Parashar, N., Huang, Z., Udumulla, T., Chen, W., De Forni, D., Weck, M., De Peppo, G. M., Riedo, E., & Shahrjerdi, D. (2024). Nanoscale-localized multiplexed biological activation of field effect transistors for biosensing applications. Nanoscale. https://doi.org/10.1039/d4nr02535k
To stay updated with the latest developments in STEM research, visit ENTECH Online. This is our digital magazine for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
At ENTECH Online, you’ll find a wealth of information. Besides this, we offer insights and resources to fuel your curiosity. Specifically, our goal is to inspire your passion for new scientific discoveries.
Everything a teen wants to know for career planning.
Disclaimer
This article/blog post is not intended to provide professional or technical or medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle. AI-generated images are used only for illustration and decoration. Their accuracy, quality, and appropriateness can differ. Users should avoid making decisions or assumptions based only on the text and images.
