Several nanotechnology-based techniques are currently being explored for infectious disease diagnostics:
1. Nanoparticle-based assays: These assays use nanoparticles conjugated with antibodies or other molecules that bind specifically to pathogens. Upon binding, the nanoparticles can produce a detectable signal, such as a color change or fluorescence.
2. Nanoscale biosensors: These sensors can detect the presence of pathogens or their biomarkers at very low concentrations, often in real-time. They are particularly useful for point-of-care diagnostics.
3. Lab-on-a-chip: This technology integrates multiple laboratory functions on a single chip at the nanoscale. It can process small volumes of samples, making it ideal for rapid and accurate diagnostics.
4. Quantum dots: These semiconductor nanoparticles can be used in multiplexed assays to detect multiple pathogens simultaneously due to their broad excitation spectra and narrow emission spectra.
