Using Boehmite Nanoparticles as an Undercoat, and Riboflavin as a Redox Probe for Immunosensor Designing: Ultrasensitive Detection of Hepatitis C Virus Core Antigen

In this study, a label-free electrochemical immunosensor for ultrasensitive detection of Hepatitis C virus core antigen in serum samples was fabricated using a simple approach. In this method, a low-cost and sensitive immunosensor was fabricated based on a boehmite nanoparticles (BNPs) modified glassy carbon. The BNPs provide a specific platform with an increased surface area which is capable of loading more antibody molecules as a receptor element of Hepatitis C virus core antigen on the electrode surface. It seems that BNP/ antibody conjugate may be an ideal platform for the development of an efficient immunosensor. It is worth noting that the proposed nanoimmunosensor combines the advantages of the elimination of another substrates in modifying the electrode and reducing the length of the modifying process. The experimental parameters, such as pH and incubation of time were optimized. Under the optimal conditions for modified glassy carbon electrode, a linear relationship was realized in the range of 0.08-110 pg ml-1, with the detection limit of 10 fg ml-1.The proposed method was applied to the determination of Hepatitis C virus core antigen in serum samples wit h the desirable results.