HIV-1 Tat peptide detection by using RNA aptamer on MWCNT modified electrode

An electrode has been fabricated for detection of HIV-1 Tat protein. Functionalized carboxylated multiwalled carbon nanotube (COOH-MWCNT) has been deposited by spray technique on the electrode to act as amplification layer and immobilization site for aptamer. Aptamer has been proved that it is highly specific for the detection of its target molecule. In this paper, we demonstrated the immobilization of split aptamer on MWCNT-modified electrode by interaction of carboxyl functional group from MWCNT and amine functional group from aptamer. The implementation of split RNA aptamer as a recognition element is promising for detecting HIV-1 Tat peptide. Detection has been conducted in control sample and HIV-1 Tat protein sample. The intercalation of aptamer and protein has given changes to the electrical signal and quantified by picoammeter showing decrease in current value of 3.74nA compared to control which different only 1.64nA.