A New Biosensor that Improves Stem Cell Therapy

Researchers at Rutgers University have developed a new biosensor with high sensitivity and accuracy in order to reliably characterize the genetic material found within stem cells.  The biosensor is constructed from a graphene and gold nanostructure which, when combined with Raman spectroscopy, detects RNA strands within stem cells with a selectivity above and beyond that of current biosensors.  Due to their adaptable nature, stem cell micro-environments are highly complex, requiring a higher caliber biosensor to ensure accurate readings.  During experimentation, the new graphene and gold biosensor accurately identified the strands of RNA that transform stem cells into neurons.  Proper characterization of these pre-neuron stem cells will allow them to be safely and effectively used to combat degenerative neurological disorders.  Now that this biosensor platform has been developed, the regenerative properties of properly categorized stem cells can be used as therapeutic treatments for a variety of ailments.

Figure 1: Graphene and gold platform that serves as revolutionary, new biosensor.  Source: Letao Yang, KiBum Lee, Jin-Ho Lee and Sy-Tsong (Dean) Chueng.

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Source: https://news.rutgers.edu/better-biosensor-technology-created-stem-cells/20191111#.XcsD6ldKiUm