Frontiers in Nanotechnology | Journals

Abstract

DNA SARS-CoV-2 Sensor for Recognition of Polyclonal Antibodies: Use of Raman Photonic Spectrometry

Author(s): Cuero Raul

The aim of this investigation was to recognize SARS-CoV-2 antibodies In vitro using synthetic biology. A DNA sensor was constructed using natural and synthetic genetic sequences in SHuffle T7 Express competent bacterial or yeast cells. These sensors were based on expression of SARS-CoV-2 proteins that includes the spike protein, the membrane glycoprotein, the nucleocapsid protein, and 3CL protease. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE 2) and enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) were also added to strengthen detection capability of these sensors. Genes for these proteins were assembled and hosted in bacteria or yeast. Lysates from transformed organisms were used as the source of antigens for recognition by SARS-CoV-2-specific commercial antibodies using ELISA method. Construction of the COVID-19 antibody sensor was also confirmed by using Raman spectrophotometric analysis to corroborate the expression of the recombinant proteins related to spike and nucleocapsid. These results were compatible with the SARS-CoV-2 proteins developed into the DNA sensor.

The detection of antibody binding to the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein was very strong in most samples. The spike protein antibody binding signal was relatively stronger in bacterial samples compared to yeast samples. Both spike and nucleocapsid antibodies reacted to all lysate samples with some variations. Further testing from patients’ blood or saliva samples will be carried out to confirm similar results. This technology has shown great potential for quick SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing, and construction of a genetic platform for the development of a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, using polyclonal antibodies.