Accelerating Biosensing Technologies at Winston-Salem State University and Partner Institutions

Current limitations for simultaneous detection of multiple hormone biomarkers such as cortisol, cortisone, and insulin at physiological concentrations hinder the development of rapid, accurate, and non-invasive diagnostic tools. The proposed multimodal sensor platform will address these issues using cutting-edge nanomaterials and detection technologies. Our project leverages molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) with gold (Au) monolayers or quantum dots (QD) on Au nanostructures for enhanced detection and sensitivity using Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS), quantum coherence, and tunable fluorometric and colorimetric sensors. The integration of MoS₂ and QDs with Au nanostructures provides an innovative platform that combines multiple modalities into a single system for multiplexed detection. Furthermore, the utilization of quantum coherence to enhance signal-to-noise ratio in the detection of biomarkers at nanomolar-picomolar concentrations introduces a breakthrough in sensor technology. The initial goals of the project (Phase I) will be to assess the utility of hormones and hormone-related molecule detection using these novel approaches. Hormones, including cortisol, insulin, and cortisone, regulate multiple body functions from glucose metabolism to immune function and the inflammatory response, and improving the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of biomarker detection is critically important for enhancing the diagnosis of numerous human diseases. Our approach employs an initial characterization of the platforms, followed by development of functionalized biochemicals that bind to biomarkers associated with and bound to MoS2-Au and QD-Au platforms. Sensor optimization will be guided by multiscale modeling for the MoS2-Au nanolayers and density function theory modeling for the binder and linker peptides of the QD-Au bioconjugations. In Phase II, the performance of the multimodal sensor platform in real-world conditions, including physiological concentration ranges and complex biological samples, will be evaluated. The pioneering nature of this project will significantly establish synergistic collaborations between Winston-Salem State University, the Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, Dillard University, and the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Our proposed work integrates research and education by engaging and mentoring postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and undergraduates in biosensor research. The planned experiential training and programs in biomedical engineering and nanoengineering will provide exceptional workforce development for students at the participating institutions and will include outreach to K-12 educators at the Triad Math and Science Academy. With sustainability and commercialization as long-term goals, we will establish a Center of Excellence for Biosensing Technologies that includes the value proposition and motivation of enhancing the diagnosis and prognosis of numerous human disorders to improve the quality of life for those living with disease.