MXene/AuNP Aptasensor for Point-of-Care Cardiac Troponin I Detection
Description
This page presents the design flowchart for the MXene/AuNP aptasensor that our team proposes to fabricate and demonstrate for point-of-care detection of cardiac troponin I (cTnI). Rather than showing a completed, working device, it lays out the sequential stages of the intended build: the hardware to be assembled (a screen-printed gold electrode, an Arduino Uno microcontroller, an LMP91000 potentiostat front-end, an ADS1115 analog-to-digital converter, and an OLED display for readout), followed by the construction of the MXene/AuNP nanocomposite sensing electrode, sample introduction onto that electrode, generation of the electrochemical signal via differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), processing of that signal through the reader electronics, and delivery of a final triage-style result. The data shown at each stage is simulated to illustrate the expected workflow and output format, standing in for the real measurements we will generate once the physical sensor is constructed. This roadmap is included so that reviewers can see, step by step, what we intend to build and what we plan to exhibit and operate live on show day.
Learning Outcomes
Through designing, building, and demonstrating this biosensor, our team aims to develop hands-on competence in assembling and interfacing a low-cost electrochemical sensing system — integrating a screen-printed electrode, potentiostat, ADC, and microcontroller into a functioning signal chain. We aim to gain practical experience fabricating an MXene/AuNP nanocomposite aptasensor and understanding, from a fabrication standpoint, why an aptamer-based recognition layer offers advantages over antibody-based assays (notably stability and freedom from cold-chain storage) for point-of-care use. The project is also intended to build applied skill in differential pulse voltammetry as a detection technique, from electrode preparation through signal acquisition and interpretation, and in translating a raw electrochemical response into a clinically meaningful triage output. Ultimately, this work is meant to demonstrate our ability to carry a biosensor concept from design through physical construction to a live, operating demonstration.