Thematic Seminar on Chemical and Biological Sensors for Viral Detection

Mr . Alex C, Senior Research Scholar, CeNS, presented a thematic seminar on the topic "Chemical and Biological Sensors for Viral Detection"  to the researchers. The presentation done in the hybrid mode summarized the methods of early detection of viruses that cause a severe threat to public health and in turn affect the global economy. In his presentation, Alex elaborated on the need to develop rapid, accurate, and cost-effective ways for virus detection. Currently, various methods such as immunological assays (e.g., ELISA, LFIA), amplification techniques (e.g., PCR, NTS), chemical and biological techniques (e.g., electrochemical methods) are available for virus detection. Among the different techniques, chemical and biological techniques consume less time and give fast identification than other methods. They are categorized into four types (a) Nucleic acid-based sensors, (b) Antibody-based sensors, (c) Aptamer-based sensors, (d) Antigen-based sensors. The methods have the advantages of early virus detection, high selectivity, simple electrode fabrication, and small sample volumes. It offers benefits over conventional methods such as ELISA, RT-PCR due to the simplicity, portability, and fast response real-time analysis. Dangerous viruses such as West Nile, Ebola, hepatitis (A, B & C), Zika, Chikungunya, and influenza can be detected through such methods.

• 
•