1. Rapid tear screening of diabetic retinopathy by a detachable surface acoustic wave enabled immunosensor.
- Author
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Das D, Chen HA, Weng CL, Lee YC, Hsu SM, Kwon JS, and Chuang HS
- Subjects
- Humans, Immunoassay methods, Sound, Biosensing Techniques instrumentation, Biomarkers analysis, Surface Properties, Tears chemistry, Diabetic Retinopathy diagnosis
- Abstract
Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a chronic and progressive microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus, substantially threatens vision and is a leading cause of blindness among working-age individuals worldwide. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as ophthalmoscopy and fluorescein angiography are nonquantitative, invasive, and time consuming. Analysis of protein biomarkers in tear fluid offers noninvasive insights into ocular and systemic health, aiding in early DR detection. This study introduces a surface acoustic wave (SAW) microchip that rapidly enhances fluorescence in bead-based immunoassays for the sensitive and noninvasive DR detection from human tear samples., Results: The device facilitated particle mixing for immunoassay formation and particle concentration in the droplet, resulting in an enhanced immunofluorescence signal. This detachable SAW microchip allows the disposal of the cover glass after every use, thereby improving the reusability of the interdigital transducer and minimizing potential cross-contamination. A preliminary clinical test was conducted on a cohort of 10 volunteers, including DR patients and healthy individuals. The results demonstrated strong agreement with ELISA studies, validating the high accuracy rate of the SAW microchip., Significance: This comprehensive study offers significant insights into the potential application of a novel SAW microchip for the early detection of DR in individuals with diabetes. By utilizing protein biomarkers found in tear fluid, the device facilitates noninvasive, rapid, and sensitive detection, potentially revolutionizing DR diagnostics and improving patient outcomes through timely intervention and management of this vision-threatening condition., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest Authors hereby declare that this article is original, unpublished, and is not being considered for publication elsewhere. We confirm that the manuscript has been read and approved by all named authors and that there are no other persons who satisfied the criteria for authorship. We further confirm that the order of authors listed in the manuscript has been approved by all of us. We have also duly acknowledged all the funding agencies. Thus, the authors declare no conflict of interest. The corresponding author will be the sole contact for the Editorial process (including Editorial Manager and direct communications with the office). He is responsible for communicating with the other authors about progress, submissions of revisions, and final approval of proofs., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2024
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