Graphene-Based Transistors Achieve Ultra-Sensitive Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein

Researchers at the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia have developed a groundbreaking biosensor platform using graphene field-effect transistors (GFETs) to detect the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein at incredibly low concentrations—down to 1 femtogram per milliliter. This highly sensitive platform does not require complex labeling procedures, making it more efficient for rapid diagnostics. The team functionalized the graphene with the ACE2 receptor, a protein the virus uses to enter human cells, allowing the biosensor to specifically detect the spike protein. The technology, which leverages scalable production methods, could revolutionize virus detection, particularly for COVID-19 and emerging variants. Notably, the sensor’s design facilitates reuse, which could help lower costs. The work is a significant step toward more accessible, cost-effective, and adaptable diagnostic tools, particularly in point-of-care settings. Future developments could extend this technology to detect other viruses and pathogens, enhancing global diagnostic preparedness. The success of the biosensor platform also depends on the quality of the graphene, which is grown using chemical vapor deposition. Rigorous testing ensures that the system is reproducible and reliable, making it a promising tool for large-scale, on-site diagnostics.