Ultrasensitive detection of intact SARS-CoV-2 particles in complex biofluids using microfluidic affinity capture.

Science advances
Authors
Abstract

Measuring virus in biofluids is complicated by confounding biomolecules coisolated with viral nucleic acids. To address this, we developed an affinity-based microfluidic device for specific capture of intact severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Our approach used an engineered angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 to capture intact virus from plasma and other complex biofluids. Our device leverages a staggered herringbone pattern, nanoparticle surface coating, and processing conditions to achieve detection of as few as 3 viral copies per milliliter. We further validated our microfluidic assay on 103 plasma, 36 saliva, and 29 stool samples collected from unique patients with COVID-19, showing SARS-CoV-2 detection in 72% of plasma samples. Longitudinal monitoring in the plasma revealed our device's capacity for ultrasensitive detection of active viral infections over time. Our technology can be adapted to target other viruses using relevant cell entry molecules for affinity capture. This versatility underscores the potential for widespread application in viral load monitoring and disease management.

Year of Publication
2025
Journal
Science advances
Volume
11
Issue
2
Pages
eadh1167
Date Published
01/2025
ISSN
2375-2548
DOI
10.1126/sciadv.adh1167
PubMed ID
39792670
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