Multi-technique-based electrochemical sensing of lipoarabinomannan (LAM) antigen as a biomarker for early-stage tuberculosis diagnosis.

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a pressing global health challenge, necessitating precise and reliable biomarkers for early detection. Lipoarabinomannan (LAM), an FDA-approved biomarker (Monoclonal Antibody-MBS320597), holds significant potential due to its association with the Mycobacterium tuberculosis cell wall. This study systematically evaluates LAM concentrations ranging from 1 pg/mL to 6 ng/mL using Square Wave Voltammetric (SWV) analysis, achieving an exceptional detection limit (LOD) of 0.077 pg/mL. A comprehensive review of current diagnostics highlights critical gaps, including limitations in speed and accuracy, underscoring the urgency for advanced methodologies. In this study, LAM's performance is assessed by analyzing spiked urine samples, demonstrating its high sensitivity, specificity, and reliability as an early-stage TB biomarker. By comparing findings with existing diagnostic tools and addressing identified limitations, this study emphasizes LAM's potential to transform TB diagnostic strategies. These results contribute to global efforts to improve early detection, enhance patient outcomes, and pave the way for future advancements in TB diagnostics.