Sensitive Zika biomarker detection assisted by quantum dot-modified electrochemical immunosensing platform

We report the development of a new nanostructured electrochemical immunosensing platform for the detection of the Zika virus envelope protein (EP-ZIKV). For this, quantum dots (QDs) were explored in combination with screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCEs) functionalized with a conductor polymeric film, formed from 2-(1H-pyrrol-1-yl)ethanamine (Py am ), and anti-EP DIII ZIKV antibodies. Carboxylated CdTe QDs were synthesized, characterized by optical and structural techniques, and covalently immobilized onto the SPCE/PPy am surface. Then, anti-EP ZIKV antibodies were also covalently conjugated to QDs. All stages of platform assembly were evaluated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The detection of EP-ZIKV was performed by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). Results indicated that QDs were efficiently immobilized, and did not show oxidation, under the conditions evaluated, for at least 7 months. Anti-EP ZIKV antibodies were effectively immobilized on the PPy am /QDs surface, even after 2 months of electrode storage. The platform enabled the detection of EP-ZIKV with high sensitivity using minimal sample volumes (LOD = 0.1 ng mL -1 and LOQ = 0.4 ng mL -1 ). The platform was also able to detect EP-ZIKV in spiked serum samples. Moreover, the platform showed specificity, not detecting the EP-DENV 3 nor in a mixture of four DENV serotypes antigens. Thus, the proposed combination favored the development of a sensitive immunosensing platform, promising for the detection of Zika in the viremic phase, which also holds potential for transposition to other arboviruses. • An electrochemical platform based on SPCE, QDs and polypyrrole film for Zika detection was developed; • The polymer film facilitated the charge transfer process, eliminating the need for previous SPCE treatments; • QDs immobilized on SPCEs presented (electro)chemical stability over time; • The platform enabled a specific and highly sensitive detection of the ZIKV envelope protein.