Portable and sensitive Ag nanorods based SERS platform for rapid HIV-1 detection and tropism determination

In this study, surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) based field-deployable platform has been explored for early detection and distinction of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1). A highly optimized silver nanorods array, fabricated using glancing angle deposition technique was used as SERS substrate. Distinct signature peaks for varying concentrations (10(2) to 10(6) copies/mL) were identified in five different HIV-1 subtypes (A, B, C, D, and CRF02_AG). Binding of viruses directly with Ag nanorods without using antibodies or intermediate reagents is shown. The purified viruses were spiked in water and healthy plasma to capture pure HIV-1 peaks. Distinct peaks were also captured for the X4 and R5 tropic strains suggesting tropism based detection. The above data was further confirmed and analyzed statistically using a multivariate tool. Thus, the present study indicates the ability of the SERS platform to detect and differentiate the HIV-1 virus implying its further validation using clinical specimens and isolates.

Automated summary

This study explored the early detection and differentiation of HIV-1 using a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) platform, with highly optimized silver nanorods array as the substrate. Different HIV-1 subtypes were successfully distinguished without the use of antibodies or intermediary reagents. Additionally, distinct peaks for X4 and R5 tropic strains were captured, showing the potential for tropism-based detection.