Detection of Orexin A Neuropeptide in Biological Fluids Using a Zinc Oxide Field Effect Transistor.

摘要

Biomarkers which are indicative of acute physiological and emotional states are studied in a number of different areas in cognitive neuroscience. Currently, many cognitive studies are conducted based on programmed tasks followed by timed biofluid sampling, central lab processing, and followed by data analysis. In this work, we present a sensor platform capable of real-time biomarker detection specific for detecting neuropeptide orexin A, found in blood and saliva and known as an indicator of fatigue and cognitive performance. A peptide recognition element that selectively binds to orexin A was designed, characterized, and functionalized onto a zinc oxide field effect transistor to enable real-time detection. The detection limit using the sensor platform was 100 aM in water, and fM-nM levels in saliva and serum, respectively. The transistor and recognition element sensor platform can be easily expanded allowing for multiple biomarkers to be detected simultaneously, lending itself to complex biomarker analysis applicable to real-time feedback for neuroscience research and physiological monitoring.