Label-free detection of H1N1 virus for point of care testing

Abstract

An assay for the detection of H1N1 virus was established using Reflectometric Interference Spectroscopy (RIfS), a label-free optical detection method. A direct assay format was used to detect the virus by the corresponding antibody immobilized on the chip surface. The used surface chemistry showed low non-specific binding of the virions and gave reproducible signals. The binding of H1N1 virus was monitored in RIfS and verified by atomic force microscopy (AFM) measurements. The proposed assay has the potential to be integrated in portable and miniaturized devices based on RIfS, which can be used in point of care testing at e.g. airports to improve homeland security.