Graphenated IR screen for detection of human and avian flu viruses

Targeted drug delivery and screening of drugs with specific affinity to membrane proteins require a good monitoring method. Here we monitor the binding of hemagglutinin (HA) to a model membrane- lipid bilayer- by using Infrared (IR) spectroscopy. IR spectroscopy is a useful spectroscopic tool to assess bio-molecular vibrations and provides with molecular fingerprinting. Yet, in order to achieve such goal, one needs to devise a bio-compatible platform that enhances the respective IR signals. We use graphene-coated IR (G-IR) screens as substrates and demonstrate their usefulness in monitoring the attachment of HA from influenza virus to proper receptors.