Dengue virus detection using impedance measured across nanoporous aluminamembrane

The prevalence of dengue around the world makes it critical to develop a simple diagnostic device that can be easily handled by end users and provides fast results. In this paper, we described the use of a small and thin piece of alumina membrane, 60 μm thick and 13 mm in diameter as the sensing platform for the detection of dengue infection. The electrochemical setup is simplified by using the membrane as both the working and the counter electrode. This is achieved by coating both sides of the membrane with a submicron layer of platinum. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was utilized for the characterization of the immunosensor as well as the acquisition of data. The change in the pore resistance of the membrane displayed a good correlation with the concentration of the dengue 2and dengue 3viruses in plaque forming unit (PFU mL−1), giving detection limit of 0.230 PFU mL−1 and 0.710 PFU mL−1 respectively. This thin piece of membrane sensor, coupled with the simple electrochemical setup, fast detection time of 40 min and high sensitivity, showed potential to be developed into a disposable point-of-care diagnostic tool for clinicaluses.

► We used nanoporous alumina membrane as sensor platform for detection of dengue infection.
► Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was used to characterize sensor preparation steps.
► Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was also used for acquisition of data.
► Change in membrane pore resistance showed good correlation with concentration of dengue viruses.
► Detection limit of 0.230 PFUml−1 and 0.710 PFUml−1 were obtained for dengue virus 2and 3, respectively.