Advances of nanopore sensors toward virus detection and diagnostic applications

Abstract

With the advantages of ultra-sensitivity and high through-put, nanopore technology has now evolved into a versatile tool for a wide range of practical applications, involving genomic sequencing, proteomic analysis, and biomarker detection of various infectious and noninfectious diseases.Especially for infectious diseases, rapid diagnosis of pathogenic microorganisms is a critical prerequisite for pandemic control and treatment. As well known, the whole-genome sequences of some pandemic viruses have been accomplished to provide a high-resolution view of pathogen surveillance.This article reviews the progress of nanopore sensors towards virus detection and clinic applications, focusing on innovative strategies aimed at enhancing detection efficiency. Intrinsically, the nanopore allows single-molecule counting of viruses in ionic channel. Some nucleic acid and protein components of the viruses are also potential target candidates for virus detections. Meanwhile, a variety of molecular probes involving aptamers, nucleic acids, peptides and nanoparticles have been designed to improve the detection sensitivity of target viruses. The stochastic sensing mode of nanopores further simplifies the conventional testing process, focusing on rapid and qualitative identification of multiplex viruses, making it more feasible for potable, point-of-care diagnostics.